Monty Python's Spamalot Liverpool Empire

Spamalot first exploded onto the stage on Broadway in 2005 and hasn’t stopped entertaining us peasants since. It is a story so steeped in history and has such a following of loyal fans, that it is hard not to feel butterflies of anticipation as King Arthur and his trusty steed Patsy take us in search of the Holy Grail.

The show begins with the Fisch Schlapping Song, complete with fish of course, and so begins the familiar story of King Arthur rounding up his Knights of the Round Table, in their quest from God, to find the Holy Grail. It was suggested that He could perhaps find another one, but they set off on their quest anyway. Helping King Arthur find his Knights, is the Lady of The Lake, who pops up now and again to make sure that all is well and that no one has forgotten she’s there.

Along the way they are met by extreme peril; the French posed quite a problem as they threw a cow at them and called their mothers very rude names, but that did not stop the heroes who just got on their horses and rode off. The clatter of those coconut shells caused quite a commotion, but the Knights who say Ni caused more and if it was not for a poor unfortunate woman who happened to be selling her shrubbery, well who knows what would have happened?

Of course we know what happens, and there is thankfully a happy ending as we are all told to ‘Look on the Bright Side of Life’ and with a production like this, it is hard not to. Marcus Brigstocke plays a rather convincing King Arthur, in his very regal cape and crown, and alongside him is Patsy, his faithful steed and companion. Todd Carty has grown into the role of Patsy and plays him with such subtly and physicality. Lady of The Lake Jodie Prenger, was the lady of the show for me. Her character is big, bold and booming, as is her amazing voice. Her character allowed her to be versatile and this just showcased her vocal range and characterization.

A very energetic and enjoyable performance from Rob Delaney who plays Sir Robin. His song ‘You Won’t Succeed In Showbiz’ was a show stopper.

Director Christopher Luscombe has done a brilliant job with the twelve strong cast, but with a script as well known as Month Python , there is nothing really that can go wrong. Eric Idle and John Du Prez have lifted it from the TV to stage and have given the sale of Spam a helping hand along the way.

This is silliness on a scale never before seen. A must see for fans of the absurd and for anyone who just wants to be entertained.

10/10

Monty Python’s Spamalot runs until Saturday 21st January. Contact box office on 0844 499 6677.

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