Review: 'Spamalot' By Thomas S. Wootton High School

A Cappies review of the performance of Monty Python's Spamalot at Thomas S. Wootton High School on Saturday, March 30, 2019.

ROCKVILLE, MD — With their performance of Monty Python's Spamalot, Thomas S. Wootton High School transports audiences to medieval England, where losing a limb elicits the response "tis but a scratch" and a shrubbery is considered highly desirable. In this exciting production of the classic farce comedy, Wootton proves that anything can be accomplished through positive thinking, persistence, and a little bit of divine assistance.

Monty Python's Spamalot previewed in Chicago before beginning its Broadway run in 2005. It was highly praised by critics and audience members alike, winning the Tony Award for Best Musical and garnering a total of 14 nominations. The story revolves around Arthur, King of the Britons, who is ordered by God himself to embark on a quest to find the Holy Grail. Along with his Knights of the Round Table and noble friend Patsy, Arthur overcomes obstacles in the most ludicrous way possible in order to reach his goal, encountering adventure and finding love along the way.

The action within Spamalot was driven by King Arthur, played skillfully by Zack Cassidy. Cassidy assumed the eccentric persona of the quirky king expertly, lending sharp comedic timing and a commanding voice to the leading role. The effortless chemistry between Cassidy and Olivia Speck as the king's constant companion Patsy was highlighted in the number "I'm All Alone," made especially memorable by Speck's hilarious reactions to Cassidy's laments. The duo continued to charm audience members throughout the show, from the comical clapping of coconut shells to simulate the king's trotting horse, to Arthur's eventual heartwarming declaration about his pal: "Patsy is family!"

Portraying the not-so-brave Knight of the Round Table, Sir Robin, was Charlotte Bergel. Bergel consistently lit up the stage with her expressive face, resonant vocal quality, and fantastic dancing. Following her character's development from a fearful knight to an exuberant musical theatre performer was like watching a cautious caterpillar find its wings as a boisterous butterfly, and one who is a fierce tap dancer at that! Bergel's energy in "You Won't Succeed on Broadway" made the number an altogether joyful experience and a highlight of the production.

The company of Spamalot consisted of extremely versatile singers, dancers, and actors that were always engaged and committed to furthering (or hindering) King Arthur on his quest. The dynamic Lady of the Lake, played by Alyssa Herman, showcased impressive vocals and a captivating diva persona in the powerful ballad "Whatever Happened to My Part". Another standout in the show was Robert Summers-Berger as Not Dead Fred, whose lively facial expressions and enthusiastic movements never failed to evoke a laugh. Sean Klein's Herbert was a delight, with a beautifully smooth voice and an adorable personality that juxtaposed brilliantly with Matthew Sachs as the bold and brutish knight Sir Lancelot.

From the gigantic wooden rabbit meant to "Trojan Horse" the relentless French taunters to the extravagant oversized playing cards in the sparkling Camelot montage, the creative props in the show contributed to the terrific absurdity of the tale. The Wootton Pit Orchestra, made up of all student musicians, delivered an extremely strong performance, marked with expertly executed comedic bits including a cleverly placed cymbal crash.

The Wootton cast, crew, and pit orchestra concluded their vibrant production of Monty Python's Spamalot with a reminder to "always look on the bright side of life," leaving audience members with a smile on their faces and a catchy tune inside their hearts.