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https://www.drewanthonycreative.com.au/spamalot-melbournesydney-2026
Date Reviewed: 15/10/2026
Review by Natalie Salvo
Monty Python always knew how to make ‘em larf. The subversive comedy group have long been a cult favourite since they released their TV show and films all those years ago. “Spamalot,” a stage adaptation of “Monty Python and The Holy Grail” is a hilarious musical bringing together many Python favourites (not least some sketches they play out on the screen before the main event even begins!)
The show previously premiered in Australia in 2007. The latest adaptation from the Drew Anthony Collective has done an excellent job of capturing the absurdity and spirit of Eric Idle’s book and lyrics. This production is one full of high-octane energy and is nothing short of a real zany adventure. It tells the plight of King Arthur and his motley crew of the Knights of the Round Table.
Stephen Curry who will forever bn known as Dale Kerrigan in “The Castle” stars as a deadpan, King Arthur. In his musical theatre debut, he certainly shows audiences that he has a dazzling singing voice to match his fine acting chops. This voice was particularly highlighted in numbers like “I Am Alone.” Curry really helps carry the show and has some very funny jokes (including referencing his cult film) and a cheeky aside about the lackluster venue (we were all thinking the cavernous Star Event Centre wasn’t much of a theatre and then he went and made a jibe about it being a corporate event space in what was pure, comedy gold).
Patsy is King Arthur’s servant and Jamie Rolton does a stellar job in his role. He clip-clops his way using coconuts and also tap-dances in a number that positively shines. The other merry men include Gareth Isaac (who was delightful in “Elf”) playing up his goofy, inner child alongside Sir Lancelot (Jesse Vasiliadis), and Sir Galahad (Ethan Jones).
The story is quite faithful to the original film with many of the key scenes from it featuring here. Python fans will be onboard from the get-go with “Fisch Schlapping Song” about Finland (a delightful miscommunication if ever there was one). The showstopper, “Always Look on The Bright Side of Life,” originally from “The Life of Brain” is used here to cheer up our heroes when they cannot locate shrubbery. The joyous optimism of that song really encapsulates the entire spirit of the musical and let’s just say that it’s worth the price of admission alone.
Marney McQueen plays Lady of the Lake. She brings a charismatic sassiness to the role. The ensemble do a stellar job of sliding and shimmying their way through the spirited dance numbers. This all keeps the momentum flying along at the speed of a locomotion. And if that wasn’t enough, the always amusing, Dr Karl, even made a cameo on opening night.
It is a bit disappointing that the music was all produced via a backing track (albeit, a great sounding one that synced up well with the live singing). The addition of a live orchestra would have given the proceedings an added sense of punch. The set by Rosie Martin is a tad sparse but it does make a wonderful use of an LCD Screen with visuals by Aquixel, which capture so many different places and things (including an overconfident Black Knight). Annette Stivaletta’s costumes are a real contrast as they are very vibrant and eye-catching.
“Spamalot” is ultimately a show that will lift your spirts and leave you feeling such a sense of childish glee. It happily skewers everything: laughing at itself, musicals like “West Side Story,” “Fiddler on the Roof,” and Andrew Lloyd Webber compositions, and all while never taking this madcap world too seriously. “Spamalot” is an utter joy that revels in celebrating the ridiculous. It also looks poised to keep making the great unwashed larf for some time yet. Jolly good, I say!
Photo by Ben Fon.
Spamalot plays at Sydney’s Star Event Centre until 18 October 2026.
Spamalot then plays Western Sydney’s Coliseum Theatre until 25 October 2026.