BWW Reviews: The Muny Opens Season with Funny Production of SPAMALOT

Torrential rains beforehand, a late start, and even technical issues couldn't dampen the enthusiasm of the cast of Spamalot, which is currently playing The Muny. I brought my young son along to the show since he'd enjoyed the movie, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, that it's based on, and I'm happy to report that he laughed at the silliness on display repeatedly. I myself have issues with this hodgepodge of scenes cobbled from the cult film, and in fact, it is the additional elements that book writer and Python member Eric Idle included, along with a couple of fresh songs he's written with frequent collaborator John Du Prez, that really stand out to me in this parody/homage. One thing's for sure, a game cast led by John O'Hurley delivered a hilarious presentation under less than ideal conditions this past Monday at the Muny.

Spamalot takes the basic plot of the film, with King Arthur assembling his Knights of the Round Table and leading them on a quest for the holy grail, and actually gives it an ending, something missing from the movie, which ends abruptly. As the story unfolds, a number of familiar scenes (at least to fans) are intertwined with numbers and bits that poke fun at formulaic musicals, with the highlight arriving early in the show as Sir Galahad and the Lady of the Lake belt out "The Song That Goes Like This". But, it's the reliance on the favorites that actually slow down the show's momentum.

John O'Hurley is a stalwart and capable King Arthur, and he takes command of the looney troop he assembles. O'Hurley also contributed several amusing adlibs during the proceedings. His servant, Patsy, is played with particular gusto by David Hibbard. John Schere injects a bit of life into role of the cowardly Sir Robin, and Ben Davis is properly vainglorious in the re-imagined part of Galahad. Chris Hoch, like several of the actors, takes on a number of roles, and though he's sharp as the sexually confused Lancelot, he's at his best as the officious French taunter. Tally Sessions is effective as the wise, but nutty Sir Belvedere, and Kevin Cahoon is memorable as the fey Prince Herbert, while also under heavy makeup as the historian who narrates the tale. The voice of Bob Costa even makes a surprise guest appearance. But, it's Michele Ragusa's over the top performance as the Lady of the Lake that really lifts this show to new heights. Her sassy, comic attitude combined with her diva-like vocal chops really adds something special to the show, and it's a shame that her number, "The Diva's Lament", actually rings true, when it's supposed to just be a gag.

Denis Jones does a nice job directing this crazy show, and it's nicely paced and filled with goofy gags that more often than not hit their mark. The same can be said for Jones's choreography which makes "I Am Not Dead Yet" into a early showstopper . Seth Jackson's lighting brings out the Vegas atmosphere intended, and Steve Gilliam's scenery is colorful and cartoonish, which also fits the mood. Nathan Scheuer's projections, though troubled by a balky screen on this occasion, were also quite funny at times.

Fans of Monty Python, and those that like a bit of fun poked at "musical conventions", will enjoy the spectacle that is Spamalot. There are a great number of entertaining moments and laughs to be found here, along with some fine performances. Spamalot continues at The Muny at Forest Park through June 23, 2013.

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