Spamalot - Derby Theatre

Selladoor Productions

"Mind-blowing musical madness and mayhem..."

In a whirl I left the very warm and welcoming Derby Theatre last night thinking to myself did that just happen? This was my first Spam experience. Although its been on stage for yonks I just haven't been in the right place at the right time to witness it and, being an avid fan of all things Monty Python, Carry On, British sea-side and good ole traditional English panto, I was glad I did as it was right up my flagpole.

This hilarious, ripped-off stage version of the original Monty Python and the Holy Grail movie really is just as funny and insane as the critics have reported and it certainly dazzled me into a frenzy, leaving me feeling happy and energized and eager to buy a coconut. Not bad for a Tuesday night out.

Eric Idol is a legend. His writing and song lyrics are beyond genius and his popularity still sits at the top after 50 successful global years in the comedy business. Its a musical mickey-take, a ridiculous slapstick with the all-familiar Python flown-in cardboard feet, a killer rabbit, invisible horses, bad puns, musical madness and mayhem.

With the show set at a fabulous pace the cast, as a whole, is simply glorious, lovable and untouchable with Bob Harms leading as King Arthur and Sarah Harlington as Lady of the Lake, both vocally magnificent. Director Daniel Buckroyd has ensured a seamless production of the highest standard and the choreography by Ashley Nottingham is notably outstanding - from fish slapping Fins to glitzy show girls, from dancing knights to ballet dancing princes, the audience is treated to hilarious tap routines, high kicks, chases, death scenes and character routines performed by an adept all-singing all-dancing cast who own the stage completely.

Musical Director, Dean McDermot, keeps everything running in perfect time and the simple set design is all that is needed, considering the cast's personality is big enough to fill a football stadium.  Excellently costumed and with tech perfection this show is five star.  Get a ticket if you can and if you can't just remember to 'always look on the bright side of life!'.

Runs to 21 April. Suitable for everyone.