Spamalot, a musical comedy adapted from the 1975 film ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail,’ brings to the stage the unique and hilarious style of the British comedy troupe Monty Python. Created by Eric Idle, one of the original members of Monty Python, with music by John Du Prez and Idle himself, Spamalot premiered on Broadway in 2005, capturing audiences with its witty dialogue, memorable songs, and over-the-top humor.
Spamalot show today in New York includes self-referential humor, breaking the fourth wall, and playful anachronisms that keep the audience laughing and engaged. The musical’s catchy songs and vibrant production design have made it a beloved classic in contemporary theater.
If you’re thinking of purchasing Spamalot Broadway tickets, here’s all you need to know about the show beforehand.
Story Overview
Spamalot show in New York is a playful take on the classic Arthurian legend, offering a story filled with adventure, comedy, and unexpected twists. The story begins with King Arthur traveling through medieval England with his trusty servant, Patsy, seeking knights to join his Round Table. Arthur recruits several characters, including Sir Bedevere, Sir Lancelot, Sir Galahad, and Sir Robin.
Together, these knights embark on a quest to find the Holy Grail, a sacred artifact with great significance. Their journey is far from ordinary, filled with bizarre and humorous encounters. Early in their quest, they face the French Taunters, soldiers who mock them from a castle wall, hurling insults.
As the quest continues, they meet the Knights Who Say “Ni,” who demand that Arthur and his men bring them a shrubbery before they are allowed to pass. This unusual request leads to more comedic situations as the knights scramble to fulfill the odd demand.
Their journey also brings them face-to-face with the formidable Black Knight, who, despite losing all his limbs in a sword fight with Arthur, insists on continuing the battle. Another notable challenge involves the Killer Rabbit, a seemingly harmless white rabbit that turns out to be deadly, guarding the entrance to a cave where the Grail is believed to be hidden. The knights come up with a clever strategy to overcome this fierce creature.
Throughout their quest, the knights encounter various other peculiar characters and obstacles, each contributing to the overall hilarity of their journey. Despite the many challenges and detours, King Arthur and his knights remain determined to find the Holy Grail. In the end, their quest leads them to a surprising revelation and an unconventional conclusion.
Cast Information
Spamalot in NYC theater has a talented cast bringing the iconic characters to life. Here’s a guide.
- James Monroe Iglehartas King Arthur
- Alex Brightman (replacing Taran Killam) as Lancelot
- Christopher Fitzgerald as Patsy
- Leslie Rodriguez Kritzeras The Lady of the Lake
- Ethan Slateras The Historian/Prince Herbert
- Jimmy Smagula as Sir Bedevere
- Michael Urie as Sir Robin
- Nik Walker as Sir Galahad
Supporting Cast
- David Josefsberg
- Graham Stevens
- Daniel Beeman
- Maria Briggs
- Gabriella Enriquez
- Michael Fatica
- Denis Lambert
- Shina Ann Morris
- Kaylee Olson
- Kristin Piro
- Drew Redington
- Tyler Roberts
- Anju Cloud
- Darrell T. Joe
- Lily Kaufmann
- Charlie Sutton
Venue Details
Located at 246 West 44th Street, New York, NY 10036, St. James Theatre is a historic Broadway venue renowned for its stunning architecture and rich theatrical legacy. With a seating capacity of over 1,700, it provides a grand setting for major productions, making it an iconic location for Broadway shows like Spamalot in New York.
Reviews
Spamalot in Broadway theater in NYC has received widespread acclaim for its humor, creativity, and vibrant production. Critics praise its witty script and catchy musical numbers, focusing on its successful satire and homage to the original ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’ film. Performances, particularly by leads like Tim Curry and Sara Ramirez in the original cast, have been highlighted for their comedic brilliance and strong vocals. The show’s direction by Mike Nichols and its impressive set and costume designs have also garnered positive feedback.
The costumes and set design of Spamalot for families are also appreciated as it is integral to its comedic appeal. The audience agrees that the costumes are vibrant and exaggerated, reflecting the show’s humorous nature. The set design is considered equally extravagant, with vibrant backdrops and props that bring the medieval world to life.
Music
The musical score of Spamalot in Broadway theaters in NYC, filled with wit and parody, contributes significantly to the show’s comedic impact and overall charm. Here’s a list of all the musical numbers.
- “Overture” — An instrumental introduction setting the tone for the humorous adventure.
- “Fisch Schlapping Dance”— A comedic number featuring Finnish villagers in a playful, slapstick dance routine.
- “King Arthur’s Song” — King Arthur introduces himself and his noble quest to find the Holy Grail.
- “I Am Not Dead Yet” — A humorous song sung by a not-so-dead man protesting being taken away during a plague.
- “Come With Me” — The Lady of the Lake invites Sir Galahad to join her on a fantastical journey.
- “Laker Girls Cheer”— The Lady of the Lake’s cheerleading squad supports King Arthur’s quest.
- “The Song That Goes Like This”— A parody of over-the-top love ballads, poking fun at musical theater clichés.
- “He Is Not Dead Yet” (Reprise) — A brief reprise emphasizing the comedic insistence on not being dead.
- “All For One” — King Arthur and his knights celebrate their unity and commitment to their quest.
- “Knights of the Round Table”— A grand and lively number introducing the glamorous life at Camelot.
- “The Song That Goes Like This” (Reprise) — A short reprise continuing the parody of melodramatic musical numbers.
- “Find Your Grail”— An inspirational song encouraging the knights to pursue their quest with determination.
- “Run Away!” — A comedic song highlighting the knights’ cowardly retreat from danger.
- “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” — A cheerful tune encouraging a positive outlook, even in challenging situations.
- “Brave Sir Robin” — A humorous song recounting Sir Robin’s less-than-courageous adventures.
- “You Won’t Succeed on Broadway” — A tongue-in-cheek commentary on the necessity of Jewish contributions to succeed in theater.
- “The Diva’s Lament” (Whatever Happened to My Part?) — The Lady of the Lake humorously grieves about her reduced role in the second act.
- “Where Are You?”— Prince Herbert sings a heartfelt song longing for his true love.
- “His Name Is Lancelot”— A lively number revealing Sir Lancelot’s unexpected romantic interests.
- “I’m All Alone”— King Arthur sings about his loneliness, humorously contrasted by Patsy’s presence.
- “The Song That Goes Like This” (Reprise)— A final reprise cementing the song’s parody status.
- “Get Your Hand Off My Knee”— A brief comedic interlude within the larger musical context.
- “The Holy Grail” — The knights celebrate finding the Holy Grail, ending their quest.
- “Find Your Grail” (Reprise) — A short reprise reinforcing the show’s central theme of pursuing one’s goals.
- “Finale”— A joyous conclusion bringing all characters together in a celebratory song.
- “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” (Reprise) — The closing number encouraging audiences to remain positive.
Awards
Spamalot, since its premiere, has garnered numerous awards, highlighting its success and popularity in the theater world. Here is a list of the major awards won by the musical.
Tony Awards (2005)
- Best Musical
- Best Direction of a Musical (Mike Nichols)
- Best Featured Actress in a Musical (Sara Ramirez)
Drama Desk Awards (2005)
- Outstanding Musical
- Outstanding Lyrics (Eric Idle)
- Outstanding Costume Design (Tim Hatley)
- Outstanding Set Design of a Musical (Tim Hatley)
Outer Critics Circle Awards (2005)
- Outstanding Broadway Musical
- Outstanding Director of a Musical (Mike Nichols)
- Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical (Sara Ramirez)
- Outstanding Costume Design (Tim Hatley)
Grammy Awards (2006)
- Best Musical Theater Album
Run Length and Schedule
Spamalot in New York typically runs for about 2 hours and 20 minutes, including one intermission. The performance schedule at St. James Theatre usually includes evening shows and matinee performances.
Weekly Schedule
- Tuesday: 7:30 PM
- Wednesday:2:00 PM and 7:30 PM
- Thursday:7:30 PM
- Friday: 8:00 PM
- Saturday: 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM
- Sunday:3:00 PM
Food and Beverage Options
Concessions are available for purchase at the bars on every level of the theater. Please bring your drinks and snacks to your seat to enjoy.
