Graceful Transition From Movie to Play
People Will Laugh-A-Lot

Courtney Bowerman

When I saw “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” in high school, I never would have imagined that it was popular enough to be turned into a Broadway musical, let alone a successful one.

However, Saturday's performance of “Spamalot” at the Wharton Center proved that some ideas aren’t as ludicrously impossible as they seem.  What was once a cult film known as “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” has been changed into an entertaining, hilarious musical where everyone — even those who aren’t “Monty Python” fans — a good time.

“Spamalot,” joins the increasing number of films that have been made into Broadway musicals, including “Legally Blonde,” “The Producers,” “Young Frankenstein” and “The Wedding Singer.”  The title of the musical comes from a line in the movie: “We eat jam, and ham, and spam a lot.”  Perhaps the original title was too long.

The story parodies of the classic King Arthur legend.  King Arthur, played by Michael Siberry, is looking for knights for his Round Table, with the help of his sidekick, Patsy (Jeff Dumas) and a diva known as the Lady of the Lake (understudy Lyn Philistine).  He ends up with a quirky group of men, and together, they go on a quest to find the Holy Grail.  Among the many things that stand in their way are rude Frenchmen, falling cows, weird peasants and killer rabbits.

If you didn’t understand the original film, don’t worry, because the musical is very easy to follow, while at the same time keeping some of the film’s best jokes.  Other highlights include playful jabs at things found in other Broadway musicals, such as the cheesy Broadway love song, the inspiration gospel music and the traditional happy ending.  Be warned, British humor is cruder and more offensive than American.  Then again, is that even possible?

Although it’s impossible to go over all of the individual performances, several manage to stand out.  Philistine brilliantly mimics the styles of singing divas like Liza Minelli, Cher and Christina Aguilera.  Siberry makes a regal yet hilariously absurd Arthur.  Dumas is great as the long-suffering Patsy, and Patrick Heusinger pulls off subtle flamboyance as Lancelot.

The songs “Sir Robin,” “Knights of the Round Table” and “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” will be instantly recognizable to “Monty Python” fans.  The other songs are not as memorable, but entertaining nonetheless.

“Spamalot” proves that any movie, if done correctly, can make a great Broadway musical.  It may not convert others to the “Monty Python” fandom, but it somehow manages to make the once-cult show enjoyable for everyone.  Be sure to keep your eyes open for a special surprise at the end of the show!