Review of Spamalot: By Julie Easlea

MY face is aching from the happy smile that I have worn throughout Spamalot - currently at The Towngate Theatre Basildon - until Saturday March 31.

It’s a laugh a minute from its witty musical Overture to the finale Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life.

Loosely based on the film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot follows King Arthur’s and his Knights’ none-too-serious quest for the fabled, sacred vessel. The songs and dances are superbly executed by a very talented cast. Ashley Nottingham’s choreography is both amusing and clever, and, like the music, pays homage to many genres.

The sonorous tones of Bob Harms, playing King Arthur are quite delightful. His entrances are all preceded by the sound of oncoming horses; but being in Python world, their hooves are two coconuts tapped together by his wonderful sidekick, Patsy, played by Rhys Owen. These coconuts double as tap shoes in yet another very comical musical number.

The virtuoso performance of Sarah Harlington, playing The Lady of the Lake, is quite amazing. She’s vocally versatile and extremely funny.

Fans of Monty Python will love it all, especially The Knights That Say “Ni” and, of course, Spam. But if you are too young to remember the film (43 years old after all), or TV series, you’ll still thoroughly enjoy the show’s energy, pace and sheer lunacy, as evident from many families in the audience.

Designer Sara Perks is a genius: The set is impressive, the many costumes stunning!