Monty Python’s Spamalot, LAOS at Loughborough Town Hall Review
Written by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
The Leicestershire-based award-winning theatrical society presented their production of Monty Python’s Spamalot this March, a wildly irreverent musical comedy that packs big laughs and even bigger musical numbers.
Lovingly ripped off from the classic film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, the show follows King Arthur and his band of eccentric knights on their quest for the Holy Grail. Bursting with outrageous humour, show-stopping songs and plenty of tongue-in-cheek silliness, it is an unmissable night of comedy. With rumours of a West End return for the musical, last revived in 2012, this musical is incredibly popular with audiences for a reason, and a fantastic introduction to Monty Python for those who are unaware of their work.
The company of LAOS, directed by Sally Bruton, breezes through the signature comedic style of Monty Python in this production. Bruton ensures the considerably sized collective fully utilises the stage, filling every corner with energy, movement, and meticulously timed comedy to bring this iconic show to life. The spectacle is further elevated by a jaw-dropping scenic design from Scenic Projects, whose ambitious set in the Loughborough Town Hall space provides a dynamic, visually striking backdrop for the mayhem that unfolds.
This production of Monty Python’s Spamalot features some excellent performances. David Burton excels in the lead role of King Arthur, with Oliver Jenkins at his side as Patsy; this duo is a force. Natasha Bryan is breathtaking with her vocals as Lady of the Lake, whilst Josh Hill provides one of the best musical numbers of the night, with “You Won’t Succeed in Showbiz” being recreated to align with modern references. Matt Leeson makes a huge impact in a multitude of roles across the performance, with his take on the Head Knight of Ni being particularly brilliant.
The ensemble works really hard in this production to build the big musical numbers, choreographed by Tania Hutchison. “Knights of the Round Table” and “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life” were huge hits with audiences. However, they would benefit from more work, as there were a lot of times when the synchronization was off, and it felt as though some of the cast didn’t actually know what they weren’t meant to do next. Cleaning up this area alone would hugely enhance the overall presentation of their musical.
My favourite thing about attending a production on this scale is that they use a live band, which definitely makes it such a more enjoyable experience. Led by Musical Director James Stevens, the score is played so beautifully in this production. However, sometimes it meant that we struggled to hear the actors on the stage or that they would need to work slightly harder on their projection.
LAOS’s production of Monty Python’s Spamalot definitely needs to look at the finer details if it’s going to find its grail during its limited run. If you love this style of humour, however, you won’t be disappointed by its execution.
Plays at Loughborough Town Hall until 07 March 2026.
★★★★
