Interview: Going Medieval with Brad DePlanche of OST's Upcoming SPAMALOT

Orlando Shakes is at it again with another viral video to kick off their blockbuster season opener SPAMALOT. If you haven't seen the video, you need to as it features some iconic Orlandoans and a whole bunch of Monty Python fans who came out for singalong. Check out the video here. BroadwayWorld caught up with Brad DePlanche who plays Patsy in the production. Patsy is King Arthur goofy sidekick squire and it appears Brad is ready for the show.

BWW: Hi Brad! Looks like Orlando Shakes chose another blockbuster musical to start off its 27th season. Are you excited for SPAMALOT?

Brad: When I got the message that I was cast as King Arthur's trusty servant-horse Patsy, I promptly soiled my armor.

For audience members who may not be familiar with SPAMALOT could you give us a quick summary?

Sure, based on the hit 1972 film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the 2005 Broadway musical comedy,Spamalot, is the classic story of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table. After "pissing around" in Camelot, God himself sends them on a quest for the Holy Grail-and much hilarity ensues.

Who do you think this show will appeal to?

EVERYONE! The score is both funny and touching, and the scenes are some of the most hilarious ever written. Director Jim Helsinger has assembled an incredible cast combining many of Orlando's finest with New York and Los Angeles based actors, and the comedic chemistry is palpable.

Why do you think Monty Python's comedy is still funny after all these years?

It was timeless in the first place, and like a fine wine...

You play Patsy, who is King Arthur's trusty servant. How do you plan to prepare for that? Do you have someone that inspires your interpretation of this role? Perhaps you just follow people around clapping coconuts?

I tried the coconut-clapping thing, but after being served a restraining order from Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer, I had to find inspiration elsewhere. My Patsy is part Marty Feldman from Young Frankenstein, and Mr. Ed from Mr. Ed.

Do you have a favorite scene that we should be looking out for?

Yes. King Arthur, played by the incredible Davis Gaines, is one of the most generous and sweet actors that I've ever had the pleasure of working. We have a couple of great musical numbers together, particularly the Python classic, "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life". I get to sing, dance, and twirl an umbrella, thus fulfilling a lifelong dream of being Gene Kelly.

I have seen you in several roles here at Shakes (HENRY V, TAMING OF THE SHREW, etc.), but I can't recall any singing roles. What are some challenges of doing a musical as opposed to a straight play?

The singing and the dancing!!! It's Gene Kelly challenging, but our genius choreographer, Billy Sprague Jr., and genius musical director, Steve MacKinnon, have the patience of saints, and by no small miracle I've yet to be fired...

It looks like many of last year's LES MIS cast has returned for SPAMALOT. What is it like working with this group?

Miserable. Actually they are so much fun... I think it's because they had to be so miserable on stage for last year's Les Mis.

Do you have any local bars or restaurants that you like to go to after shows/rehearsals?

My favorite post show hangout is The Thirsty Topher on Alden Rd. in Orlando. They don't judge my coconuts and I can easily quench my thirst on a peasant's payload.

Thanks so much for your time! I definitely look forward to checking out SPAMALOT soon.

No, thank YOU! Clippity clop, clippity clop, clippity clop...

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Get your tickets and coconuts soon because the production is already selling out. SPAMALOT runs at Orlando Shakespeare Theater from September 9 - October 11th. For tickets and more information visit http://orlandoshakes.org.

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