Spamalot

 SPAMALOT is an award-winning musical currently playing at the Holy Grail Theatre in the ultra chic Wynn Resort and Casino in Las Vegas. It tells the legendary tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table as they quest for the elusive Holy Grail. Well that’s almost true except that the story is filtered through the insanely funny mind of Eric Idle of Monty Python fame.

     SPAMALOT is based on a screenplay written by Monty Python creators Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin. Together they performed the famous BBC Television series Monty Python’s Flying Circus from 1969 to 1974. They became a worldwide sensation and lead to several movies and launched solo careers for some of the various members. Spamalot is based on one of those movies, Monty Python and The Holy Grail.

     Spamalot is a glorious confection of gags, dirt jokes, puns, satire, plain foolery, and dancing girls. It is perfect for Vegas. It has been cut to a mere 90 minutes but I think the cutting is actually an improvement. The full version can be like eating an extra dessert after you are full. The musical is blessed to have direction by Mike Nichols, one of the best directors around today and one who understands the high art of silliness from his days as part of the comedy team of Nichols and May.

     Randal Keith stars as King Arthur. He has a wonderful rich voice having put it to good use previously in LES MIZ and in THE PHANTOM ON THE OPERA. Nikki Crawford is a smashing Lady of The Lake She is funny sexy and one hell of a singer. Others in the cast are Harry Bouvy as Robin (originally played by FRAZIER”S David Hyde Pierce), Justin Brill as the droll Patsy, J Anthony Crane as Lancelot (here gay and a great opportunity for fun), Edward Stuadenmayer as the stalwart Galahad, and the campy Steven Strafford as Prince Herbert. Strafford was a particular favorite of the audience.

     The lively score is by John Du Prez and the choreography is by Casey Nicholaw.  Tim Hatley deserves special praise for his imaginative sets and costumes. Gregory Meeh provides the many special effects. 

     See this show in Vegas because it will not tour the West Coast for several more years. Besides the production in Vegas is rip-roaring fun. Special V.I.P. packages are available where you get premium seating, a 45-minute Secrets of The Grail” backstage tour and a commemorative Grail cup filled with beer or a soft drink. Guests will also be able to have their pictures taken with the cast and crew, set pieces and props.

GRAIL THEATRE at the WYNN LAS VEGAS. 888 320 7110 or 702 770 WYNN.