Review: North Carolina Theatre's MONTY PYTHON'S SPAMALOT

Last year, Raleigh Little Theatre presented their production of a musical that was lovingly ripped off from the 1975 classic film Monty Python & the Holy Grail. Now through November 20th, North Carolina Theatre is presenting their production without ripping off RLT. Spamalot is a highly irreverent spoof of the quest of King Arthur and and his Knights of the roundtable.

I will not be making any comparisons to RLT's production during this review as that would be unfair of me to compare a community theatre production to a regional production. Especially since that was a great production in its own right. Aspects of this production are inspired by the original Broadway production directed by the late great Mike Nichols. But overall, this production easily stands on its own.

Director Jennifer Werner keeps things moving very swiftly with a very enthusiastic ensemble. Not only does Jeff McCarthy makes a dashing leading man as King Arthur, but his Knights of the Roundtable get their own standout moments. Brandon Haagenson as Patsy gets to shine in his big number 'Always Look On the Bright Side of Life'; James Ludwig as Sir Robin also shines in his big number 'You Won't Succeed On Broadway'; Danny Bernardy has his moments as Sir Lancelot; Benny Elledge seems to be having fun onstage as Sir Bedevere (and others) along with JacoB Smith as Sir Galahad. Pierce Cassedy also stands out in his three roles as the Historian, Not Dead Fred, and Prince Herbert. And last but not least, Ta'Rea Campbell portrays a real diva as King Arthur's voice of reason, The Lady of the Lake.

Not only does this production have a great sense of humor, references to other Broadway musicals, production numbers very skillfully choreographed by Brian J. Marcum, and colorful lighting by Craig Stelzenmuller, but it also has heart. It seems like a great time for audiences to experience this musical as it should bring them nothing but joy and happiness. It's definitely a must see!