Florida Studio Theatre Extends Monty Python's SPAMALOT to January 19, 2014

Due to popular demand, Florida Studio Theatre announces an extension of the hit musicAl Monty Python's Spamalot, book and lyrics by Eric Idle; music by John Du Prez and Eric Idle. This Tony Award-winning musical comedy, lovingly ripped off from the classic film Monty Python and The Holy Grail, tells the tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail. Tickets can now be purchased through January 19, 2014 online at FloridaStudioTheatre.org, by phone at (941) 366-9000 or by visiting the Box Office. Monty Python's Spamalot opened to a curious audience on Friday, November 15 Gompertz Theatre at FST (located at 1241 North Palm Avenue, Sarasota FL).

Rebecca Hopkins, Managing Director, speaks to the introduction of the show to FST audiences stating, "It has been a surprise for our core audience. At the first mention of Monty Python's Spamalot, they were suspicious of the show and whether or not it would appeal to them. However, the success of this show is in large part because this a good funny show and Sarasota knows a good show when they see it! We are especially thrilled to introduce a whole new audience to the theatre. As for our loyal subscribers, any initial suspicions have been put to rest and they have fully embraced the hilarity!" The show is directed by returning FST Director Bruce Jordan, who previously directed hit comedies such as The Underpants, Perfect Wedding and Shear Madness, on which he was one of the original co-producers. With such a large cast of sixteen, not mention the grandiose set designs and numerous costume changes, this was a huge undertaking for both Jordan and FST that was met head on with a resounding success evident not only in ticket sales, but also by the reactions thus far in the run.

The enthusiasm of the audience has been undeniable, with some even prepared with their very own coconut shells in hand while anxiously waiting for the curtains to rise. Returning FST favorite Priscilla Fernandez who plays the delightful diva, Lady of the Lake, shared her feelings of this show stating, "I've had an incredible experience thus far. It has been a dream come true to portray this role and to be a part of this show." New company member, Kevin Loreque, who plays Patsy, King Arthur's loyal sidekick said of his experience on the show, "I feel like we've been so wonderfully accepted by the community here in Sarasota. I'm having such a blast playing Patsy, so I'm thrilled that we're extending our run!" FST is excited to announce the extended run of Monty Python's Spamalot through January 19, 2014 in the Gompertz Theatre.

Single tickets are $42 - $45 and may be purchased from the FST Box Office in person, by calling (941) 366-9000 or online at FloridStudioTheatre.org. ABOUT FLORIDA Studio Theatre Known as Sarasota's Contemporary Theatre, Florida Studio Theatre was founded in 1973 by Jon Spelman. Starting out as a small touring company, FST traveled to places such as migrant camps and prisons. The company eventually settled down into a permanent home, acquiring the former Woman's Club building - now renamed the Keating Theatre. In the years that followed, Florida Studio Theatre established itself as a major force in American Theatre, presenting Contemporary Theatre in its five theatre venues: the Keating Theatre, the renovated Gompertz Theatre, the Goldstein Cabaret, the John C. Court Cabaret, FST will open its fifth theatre venue, the Bowne -More- Even with its growth, Florida Studio Theatre remains firmly committed to making the arts accessible and affordable to a broad-based audience. Under Richard Hopkins, Artistic Director and CEO, FST develops theatre that speaks to our living, evolving, and dynamically changing world. As FST grows and expands, it continues to provide audiences with challenging, contemporary drama and innovative programs.