If you have seen the ending of “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” then you can appreciate that the sudden postponement of the West Side Theatre’s production of “Monty Python’s Spamalot” last September was rather in keeping in character with the movie. If you haven’t seen it, then you need not worry, for there will be no spoilers here.
The West Side Player’s will be performing this outrageously funny musical comedy at the West Side Theatre at 7 p.m. Jan. 12, 13, 19 and 20; and 3 p.m. Jan. 14 and 21.
The musical was already for opening night in September but then a wave of Covid struck and the show had to be postponed. But since the recoveries, the troupe has been coming in for regular rehearsals and is ready to delight audiences with the irreverent comedy.
“Monty Python’s Spamalot” was written by Eric Idle and is “lovingly ripped off from the classic film ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail.’” The story is an imaginative retelling of King Arthur, his Knights of the Round Table, the quest for the Holy Grail and the Lady of the Lake. Only in this version, there’s a song about Finland, some taunting French guards, show girls, coconuts and a killer rabbit.
The 2005 Broadway production won three Tony Awards, including Best Musical.
Directing the show is Farris Larsen, who got to see the show not too long ago during a visit with friends, and her co-director Kari Thompson.
“It was so funny and I immediately thought that I wanted to do this show at the West Side Theatre,” Larsen said. “I didn’t know at the time that it would be such a gigantic production.”
The Broadway production features a large cast of principle actors and extras. For the local production it means the actors are taking on multiple roles and costume changes. In total, there are 80 costumes, which were done by two volunteers.
“Everyone is doubling up on roles,” Larsen said. “Some are even triple and quadruple. But it has been great fun.”
The show stars John Burgess as King Arthur; Jimmy F. Gonzales Jr. as Patsy; Emanuel “Manny” Bautista as Sir Robin; Corey Lopez as Sir Lancelot; Gabie Layne as Sir Galahad; Christopher Snoke as Sir Bedevere; Marissa Juarez as Lady of the Lake; and Joe Moitozo Jr. as the Historian. The ensemble is made up of Courtney Ford, Bryant Villanueva, Samantha Richardsson, Maddie Corgiat, Michelle Riddell, Caroline Nelson and Carla Powers.
The crew consists of Kari Thompson as assistant director; Zachary Dimpel Alvarez as the music director; Carla Powers as the choreographer; Patty Lindquist and Jacki Inman as the costumers; David Larsen lighting engineer; Kari Thompson sound engineer; Caroline Nelson cinematographer; Farris Larsen set design; Caroline Nelson, James Williams and James Thompson as prop masters; Barbara Fanin as house manager and prompter; and Addy Riddell, Courtney Ford and Med Hoover as stage crew.
Due to adult humor and situations, only mature audiences are recommended (not suitable for young children).
General Admission is $20; Reserved $25. Doors open a half hour prior to show time.
Visit the theatre website at westsidetheatre.org or call the box office for tickets at (209) 862-4490. The theatre is a cash only establishment and no outside food or beverages are allowed.
