Spamalot

This musical, “lovingly ripped-off” from the film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, tells the story of King Arthur and his motley crew of Knights exploits to find the Holy Grail. The score is full of wonderfully funny songs - from the opening company number “Fisch Slapping Song” through the delightfully camp “His Name is Lancelot” to the rousing finale medley – and the script full of witty dialogue. The talented cast of principals and chorus had the audience in fits of laughter from the curtain opening to the final closing. Trevor Nicol as King Arthur made full use of his considerable comic and vocal talents in this demanding part. Kadee Fraser as The Lady of the Lake, though slight of frame, had a powerful voice and her range of facial expressions were a delight – especially in her rendition of “The Diva’s Lament” in Act 2. Ashley Taylor as King Arthur’s squire Patsy gave a very funny performance – his duet with Arthur “I’m All Alone” soliciting him lots of sympathy from the audience. Pete McKie as Sir Dennis Galahad gave an excellent performance and his duet with The Lady of the Lake “The Song That Goes Like This” was hilarious. Other excellent performance were given by Martin Anderson in the dual roles of Sir Lancelot/French Taunter, Alan Holling in the roles of Sir Robin/Brother Maynard and Richard Miemcyk in the roles of Sir Bedevere/ Herbert’s Father. Mention too must be made of Nicholas Nicol’s hilarious cameos as Not Dead Fred/ Minstrel/ Prince Herbert. Strong support was given by Ian Shearer as Historian/ Tim the Enchanter, Gordon Taylor as Knight of Ni/Sir Bors and Steve Kelly as the Black Knight. The chorus of leggy Laker Girls and townspeople threw themselves enthusiastically into the ensemble numbers. Costuming was colourful and appropriate to the period and good use was made of the simple but effective set. Congratulations to all The Florians for another wonderfully funny production.

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