Spamalot

In the most complimentary sense possible  -  what a wonderful evening of nonsense! 

A rousing opening with the Fisch Slapping Song & Dance set the tone for the remainder of the performance. We were assured (and never disappointed) of excellent choral work in the safe hands of MDs Paul Gudgin and Ross Hamilton. As ever with Kelty MA, choreography is always of an extremely high standard, and, tonight, with Lynne Gibb in charge - and performing, the standard was raised even higher!

Just when you thought things couldn’t get any better – we have the Principals.  Director Gary Gibb displayed his acting prowess as King Arthur,  bravely attempting – and succeeding with – an accent which he faultlessly maintained throughout. Gary’s equine manoeuvres, too, were well drilled, but where would he have been without his sidekick/manservant Patsy (Sean Mitchell) whose dexterity with his coconut shells kept Arthur in the correct stride! Both Arthur and Patsy sang extremely well, not least of all, whilst leading “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life”.  I defy any member of the audience to claim they weren’t singing this number still, the following day! 

For me, however, the star of tonight’s performance was, without doubt, Lucy Duffy as The Lady of the Lake. She looked every inch the leading lady and proceeded to command the stage at each and every appearance – not an easy task when surrounded by so many Spamalotdivas! Lucy’s vocals were  a pleasure to listen to “The Song That Goes Like This” and “Whatever Happened to My Part” being just two of the memorable moments. Her biog states that she is in fear of being typecast in “needy” parts – in fact it is we, the audience, who are in more “need” of Lucy’s theatrical talents!

Minor principal parts – of which there were many – only added to an already superb production.  Mention must be made of Sir Lancelot (Darren Johnson), a hilarious Sir Robin (Peter Tomassi), Sir Bedevere (Graeme Shield), all of whom (intentionally or otherwise!) brought comedy to the fore. Congratulations, also, to the host of named characters each of whom brought their own special twist to an already “silly” show.

Last, but not least, no expense was spared in bringing to the stage of Carnegie Hall a star of many years experience. Making his appearance as Sir Not-Appearing-In-This-Show, and brought all the way from front-of-house, was none other than, KMA stalwart, John Grieve.

Many thanks, Kelty Musical Association, for inviting us along and giving such a splendid tour-de-force of silliness!

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