Pulling out all the stops, William Osetek and his creative team have mounted a regional production of Eric Idle’s 2005 Tony Award-winning musical that is as impressive as the much-loved Broadway original. Glitzy and filled with spectacle, bawdy humor, bad puns and sight gags, this version of the “musical lovingly ripped off from the motion picture ‘Monty Python and the Holy Grail’” will please both audiences unfamiliar with the film as well as the most ardent Monty Python fans.
Christopher Ash’s magnificent stage-filling, castle is only the beginning of his scenic creativity. Animated Pythonesque projections, flying actors as a roulette wheel and an evil Enchanter, a gigantic wooden Trojan rabbit and a “dark and very expensive forest” sail effortlessly on and off stage. Over 2,000 Vegas style medieval costumes, chainmail and armor, leased from the London production, provide authencity and sparkle to the production. And Tammy Mader’s spirited choreography, supported by Roberta Duchak’s brilliant musical direction, compliments and drives the show.
Osetek’s cast of triple threats perfectly master the challenging British humor. David Kortemeier commands the stage as King Arthur with his rich baritone and deadpan of detached nobility. He is ably supported by the brilliant Matthew Crowle as his squire, Patsy. A Broadway actor resembling a young Tommy Smothers, Crowle possesses a bright, clear tenor, incomparable choreographic skills and a winning sparkle and charm. Sexy Gina Milo skillfully mimics Cher, Taylor Swift, Celine Dion and other musical divas as The Lady of the Lake. And Adam Pelty almost steals the show as Sir Robin, especially in his show stopping “You Won’t Succeed on Broadway.” Search no more: the Holy Grail of musicals comedies is in Oakbrook.
Reviewed by Centerstage!
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