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“Monty Python’s Spamalot” combines comedy and silly songs in a take-off on King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table’s search for the Holy Grail. Bring out your dead and live it up with the Broadway in the Park productionthis Thursday through Saturday at Turner Pavilion in Veteran’s Park.
The show is presented by the Springfield Arts Council, and admission is free.
“Monty Python’s Spamalot” contains some adult language and scenes the may offend some audience members.
J. Chris Moore, who has stepped up to direct his 18th show for the series along with help from choreographer Laurie Smith, saw the show when it came to Broadway and knew it was special.
“It’s not ‘The Sound of Music,’ it takes silliness to an art form,” he said. “The show has a big following. There are people who can recite it verbatim.”
Moore said this is one of the strongest casts he’s worked with. Auditions attracted actors from out of town and 40-50 men trying out.
“That’s unusual for what I’d call an ensemble show,” he said. “There are many parts, and we have some seasoned vets and some newcomers.”
Troy Berry, who has appeared in 50 local productions and performing the lead role of King Arthur, jumped at being in “Spamalot.”
“It’s the most ridiculous, funny thing ever. This is so out there,” he said. “It’s fun to be in a guy show.”
Berry loves the camaraderie that has made the cast feel like a family and called it the hardest working casts he’s been in.
Youth Arts Ambassador Greg Welch has been in numerous youth productions and is stepping into his first show with the older cast. He got a taste of the demands of the role of Patsy, Arthur’s servant by having to carry a backpack necessary for the role, but weathered it with the good humor required for the part.
“Spamalot” has only six female parts out of 25 total, one lead and five chorus members.
This didn’t bother Tia Seay, who is portraying the lead female, the Lady in the Lake. An Englewood resident, this is her first show here and maybe not her last.
“This was a bucket-list role for me. It’s so funny, there’s not a moment you’re not laughing,” she said.
Smith said it’s easier working with a seasoned cast and echoes Berry’s thoughts about being part of a theater family.
And the humor doesn’t get old.
“I’m still laughing eight weeks later,” Smith said, smiling.
This version will also throw in a few topical themes going on in today’s current events. Look for the signs, literally, for a hint.
Contact this contributing writer at bturner004@woh.rr.com.
How to go
What: "Monty Python's Spamalot"
Where: Turner Pavilion, Veteran's Park, Springfield
When: 8 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, June 22-24
Admission: Free
More info: 937-324-2712 or www.SpringfieldArtsCouncil.org
Summer Arts Festival attractions
Week 3
Thursday through Saturday, June 22-24: 8 p.m., "Monty Python's Spamalot"
Sunday, June 25: 8 p.m., When Springfield Sings! The Nehemiah Foundation's Community Praise and Worship Celebration
Start of Week 4
Tuesday, June 27: 8 p.m., Dark Star Orchestra
Wednesday, June 28: 8 p.m., The Gary Geis Dance Company
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