Monty Python's Spamalot

They say theater is dead in LA…not the case with the Ahmanson’s production of Monty Python’s Spamalot, starring John O’Hurley (most famous for playing J. Peterman on Seinfeld).  Originated on Broadway, the show has since hit the road, including permanent engagements in Las Vegas.

If you haven’t seen the show before — or even if you have — this production is a real treat.  For avid fans of Monty Python & the Holy Grail, the loosely stolen musical follows the travails of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table on their wayward quest to find the Holy Grail.  Woven in along the way are such Python classics as “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” as well as a sidesplitting rendition of “I’m not Dead Yet.”

Briskly paced and directed by Mike Nichols, the stage play moves like a locomotive, engaging the audience along the way.  There’s even an updated bit lampooning Sarah Palin, giving audiences familiar with the musical a few new surprises.  Even the biggest theater snob will be pleased and oftentimes bowled-over by the sheer energy and zest this new production provides.

The gifted cast, led of course by O’Hurley, includes stand-out performances by Merle Dandridge as “The Lady of the Lake” and Ben Davis as Sir Galahad (among other roles).  But it’s Matthew Greer, who plays both Sir Lancelot and the French Taunter (among other roles), who gives O’Hurley the biggest run for his money and clearly steals the show.

The cast’s credits mostly include other stage productions, though it’s a wonder why Hollywood hasn’t beckoned for this fresh crop of talented individuals.

Written by Eric Idle and based upon the screenplay by the Python players (including Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin), the show’s kitsch quality is at times reminiscent of Mel Brooks, particularly in the bouncy number, “You Won’t Succeed on Broadway.”

In a sea of summer blockbusters which seem to blend by the minute, if you’re looking for a memorable way to spend the evening, do yourself a favor and head downtown to the Ahmanson.  It’s unfortunate most of the public tends to overlook the theater because the expectation is it’s cost prohibitive…but by simply calling the theater direct and asking for HOT TIX, you can pick up good seats for $20 a piece (with no service charges).  With $8 to park, you’re still under what it would cost you to go see Bruno at The Grove with a bucket of popcorn, and an hour later, you won’t find yourself quietly wishing you simply waited for it to come out on DVD.

Monty Python’s Spamalot runs now through September 6th.  Monty Python & the Holy Grail is available on DVD.