Northern Light has taken some big risks in recent years but the packed house on the night I saw it shows that Monty Python will always bring the fans out. And I'm certain they weren't disappointed.
A top notch cast has taken the rather disjointed script by Eric Idle and turned it from an attempt at a cohesive plot to a series of funny sketches joined together with a loose thread or two (and some sparkling music).
There's really not a lot to tell if you've seen "Monty Python And The Holy Grail" you'll have pretty much seen Spamalot. The show sticks pretty rigidly to the film until the end when it's clear that Idle has no idea how to end the show (much in the same vein the comedy troupe had no idea how to end the original film).
None of this is the fault of Northern Light who make do with what they've got and they do it very well.
Nick Setchell and Megan Humpries sing up a storm as King Arthur and the Lady Of The Lake, both having memorable turns throughout the course of the night. Humphries is adorned is some outstanding costumes (and some that have to be seen to be believed).
They are joined by an outstanding array of talent including Omkar Nagesh (in several small but pivotal roles), Jason Ferguson, Steven Rudd Jethro Pidd, Michael Papps and Glenn Vallen- all who play numerous roles to perfection.
The rest of the ensemble join in the hilarity and dance and sing with great gusto.
The sets are practical and well lit and the costumes are all exceptional.
My biggest complaint is with Northern's ridiculous habit of miking the orchestra. As good as the band is, when it drowns out the chorus it's pointless. You either mic everyone on stage (including the chorus) or you do what other amateur groups do, which is only mic the principals. I've seen far too many Northern shows recently where the sound mix has ruined a good evening, and it's a shame when it's obvious that a lot of care and work has gone into putting on an outstanding show. It's something that needs to be addressed if Northern are to present the truly outstanding nights of entertainment that they are capable of.
Having said all that though, it was still a great night out with many laughs.
