Displaying items by tag: King Arthur

If you’ve ever enjoyed the 1975 film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail”, then “Spamalot” is definitely for you. But even those who have never seen the classic comedy would be hard pressed not to relish the musical proudly tabbed as “lovingly ripped off from the motion picture”. Now playing at the Theatre at the Center in Munster, Indiana through October 18^th, “Spamalot” brings its witty English humor to your doorstep – well, at least just a short drive away. From its opening number “Fisch Schlapping Song” to its roaring finale “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life”, this is a musical that never runs out of funny.

Celebrating 40 years since the film was released, “Spamalot” comes with a renewed score created by Eric Idle and John Du Prez. Directed flawlessly by David Perkovich and choreographed to perfection by Linda Fortunato, each number captures just the right amount of physical comedy needed to score high on the funny meter while also keeping the integrity of Monty Python humor firmly intact. Colette Todd, is stunning as she is humorous as the “Lady of the Lake”.  A true talent, Todd gets to show off her impressive vocal range on many occasions and also dazzles the crowd with her spot on comedic chops. Comic timing is vital in Theatre at the Center’s production of “Spamalot”. Chicago favorite Larry Adams knows this and is more than up for the challenge as he takes on the leading role of King Arthur and runs with it.  Adams really brings down the house in his very funny rendition of “I’m All Alone” and is just marvelous as the often oblivious king who must lead his men in the search for the Holy Grail.

The cast as a whole is impressive and many play multiple roles. With wonderful performances by Jarrod Zimmerman (Sir Dennis Galahad, Dennis, Black Knight and Herbert’s Dad), Sean Fortunato (Sir Lancelot, The French Taunter, Knight of Ni and Tim the Enchanter) and a very strong ensemble, I only regret not naming the entire cast in this review because they all deserve their kudos.  

“Spamalot” is a spin on King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table like never done before. Its unique Monty Python humor is heavily instilled into each bit of dialogue as well as its many colorful and hysterical dance numbers, making this the perfect musical production to add to your calendar.  

“Spamalot” is smashing.

For show information and tickets visit www.theatreatthecenter.com. 

“Camelot” being presented at the lovely Drury Lane Theatre in Oakbrook had an interesting twist to it.  If you've viewed other Camelot versions such as the enchanting animated “Sword and the Stone”, or the impacting dramas

“First Knight” or “Excalibur”, then be ready for a unique mix of both.  The production opened with a young King Arthur conversing with Merlin, his mentor and friend.  Merlin portrayed by Jonathan Weir was witty and engaging as he and Arthur bantered back and forth in the forest.  Quickly the audience was laughing at Arthur's antics, played by Ken Clark, a seasoned performer.

The introduction of Lady Guinevere (Christy Altomare) to Arthur evolved quickly and in a blink of the eye they ruled as the King and Queen.  The scenes and time frames were a bit blurred, and I caught myself wondering what was happening several times.  An example was when Mordved played by Patrick Rooney was on the stage. Suddenly the adult son of the King appears and a large gap of time has elapsed.  When I caught on to who Mordved was, even while following closely it was hard to understand why he and his father seemed at war with one another.

Early on Lancelot (Travis Taylor) beseeched King Arthur to allow him to serve the throne sacrificially and faithfully. Being a warrior, attractive and kind man he secretly won the heart of Lady Guinevere.  During a heartfelt moment Mr. Taylor wowed the crowd with his voice after an encounter with his love, who of course belonged to another.  I would have loved to hear more songs bursting out, but the musical flavor in this performance could only be described as 'song speaking'.  No doubt Ken Clark and Christy Altomare did this beautifully throughout the performance and their interaction with one another was engaging.  Allowing my imagination to veer from what I perhaps expected, I needed to allow room for a different type of portrayal of the King.  

Although a good, fair and wise King, his manner more often than not, seemed a bit naive or it lacked an authoritative stance.  Yet because of this, one scene stood out like no other!

'The atmosphere was sober.  The King was honoring his worthy knights, Lancelot being among them. As Lancelot stepped forth to bend his knee before his King, it was as if the scene was in slow motion. Arthur wrestled with his emotion and anger, knowing of the stifled relationship that Lancelot and Guinevere desired.  Quickly a picture of this Knight's demise entered his mind's eye.  Just as quickly the man he'd become was victorious as he took his sword, and placed it on Lancelot's shoulder.'

It was stirring and well done.  King Arthur's declaration of integrity and strength revealed the truth of why it was his destiny to rule over a people!

The costumes and the manner in which the whole cast portrayed themselves was extraordinary for this era from the hair styles to the magnificent sword fights.  'Camelot' definitely was enjoyable and entertaining despite the incites I mentioned above.  

Camelot will be playing until January 4, 2015, so invite your friends and family.  For more show information, visit www.drurylaneoakbrook.com.