REVIEW: Monty Python's SPAMALOT - Storyhouse Chester

I first watched Spamalot back in 2016 and absolutely loved it. Prior to the show I wasn't quite sure what to expect. As a teen, Monty Python sketches always seemed to go way over my head. In 2016, I had prejudged the show unfairly, automatically presuming that a) I would not find it  funny and b) I would not understand it. In hindsight I blame that on my naivety and lack of understanding due to my tender years. Having left the theatre in 2016 with aching sides due to copious amounts of laughter, I was a total convert of Monty Python. Second time around, knowing the story line of the show, I was excited to watch this new production at one of my current favourite venues Storyhouse Chester Press night was on Halloween: Tuesday 31st October.

From the moment the cast appeared on the stage, the audience were in fits of laughter. It quickly became evident that this was going to be a show full of belly laughs as the farcical sequence of events were played out hysterically before our very eyes. It's random and utterly ridiculous and so incredibly funny.

The official programme for the show explains that it is lovingly ripped off from the 1975 motion picture Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Spamalot is a humorous take on the story of King Arthur and features a killer rabbit, an eclectic mix of unusual knights of the round table, ferocious Frenchmen and dancing nuns. King Arthur travels the land in search of the Holy grail and collects his knights of the round table along the way.

The comedic sketches were absolutely side-splitting as we watched the random frivolous actions of the cast. The narrator is an endearing bumbling old fool but so engaging. He provides the perfect segue in between scenes.  

The fabulous Bob Harms plays King Arthur and is poised in his role as the protagonist. Johnathan Tweedie plays Sir Lancelot alongside the brilliant Rhys Owen who plays King Arthur's side-kick Patsy. He endeared himself to the audience with his excellent delivery. He was an amiable chap who played his role of King Arthur's manservant with passion and skill. He played the coconuts to replicate the sound of King Arthur's imaginery horse. The physical theatre was magnificent and each time the audience heard the clip of the coconuts, they would laugh without fail.

Based on the book and lyrics by Eric Idle and produced by David Hutchinson, this is a spectacle of such hilarity that you can't help but feel positively affected at the end of it. This show leaves a warm glow in the depths of your stomach as you realise that the holy grail refers to finding one's own sense of purpose. It is an interactive show and audience participation is encouraged. You will no doubt find yourself singing and whistling along to "Always look on the bright side of life" and enjoy the rush of endorphins throughout the two hour performance. If you are sat in row B, you may be in for a special treat.

"The song that goes like this" is hilarious. Sarah Harlington (Lady of the lake) stole the show for me with her incredible vocals and dead-pan delivery. She was magnificent. Gleanne Purcell-Brown and Grace Eccle were the female ensemble and were also excellent. All of the knights were incredible in their delivery and the synergy between them was remarkable. Norton James played Sir Galahad, Stephen Arden played Sir Robin, Marc Akinfolarin, the rambunctious Sir Belvedere. Matthew Pennington played Prince Herbert.

This was an excellent show which I enjoyed immensely. The whole cast are worthy of credit. The smudged mascara and aching cheekbones were all a by-product of watching this show. Two hours goes by so quickly. When Act one came to a close, I was surprised and by the end of Act two, I was hoping for another scene. I highly recommend this show and will be making a return visit to watch it again without question. It was a much needed tonic with the start of the winter season as the nights draw in. Don't delay and get your tickets for this fantastic show.

Show Details

Show runs until Saturday 4th November 

Group discounts and a limited number of concessions for people aged under 26 are available for this event

Standby tickets will be released on the day and be bookable in Storyhouse

£20.50 - £39.50 (each ticket is subject to a £1.50 booking fee)
Book early to guarantee best price
Duration 2 hours 20 minutes (including interval).

Tickets can be purchased here
Certificate 14+
PR Rating: 5 stars