THE clatter of coconut shells, the chinking of chain mail and reams of excellent insults can only mean one thing – Monty Python’s Spamalot is back on tour.

And as a long-standing fan of the classic comedy, British comic Joe Pasquale couldn’t resist getting back on the imaginary horse, to reprise his regal role as King Arthur.

“I grew up with Monty Python,” he says. “To go out and do an Eric Idle script – any comic worth their salt would give their right arm for that.”

Pasquale grew to love his character during a successful stint in the West End, which ended last April. However he is quick to admit he would settle for any role, if it meant taking part in the production.

“I’d go out as ensemble in this show,” he says.

“Being honest, I would go and just sit and watch it every night, just to take part in something to do with Monty Python, because they were a game changer in the world of comedy.”

As a stand-up comedian with more than 15 years of theatre experience, Pasquale describes Spamalot as another string to his bow.

His first foray into the world of musical theatre came a few years ago when he played the challenging role of Leo Bloom in Mel Brooks’ The Producers.

“This is only my second musical, but I love doing it,” he says. “It’s nowhere near as much singing as The Producers. Then I had about ten numbers whereas in this one I only have two, so it’s a lot easier!”

According to the Essex funny man, there is a lot to look forward to for fans that know their Monty Python history – himself included.

Many of the film’s most memorable characters have been adapted for the stage, with the Knights of Ni, Killer Rabbit and the French Taunters all making appearances.

Borrowed from Monty Python’s Life of Brian, Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life also features as a guaranteed audience highlight, reflecting its recently received accolade of Britain’s favourite comedy song.

“You can’t come and see it and not leave with a huge smile on your face,” says Pasquale, adding the audience generate a lot of laughter themselves – especially during the audience participation section at the end of each show.

“It’s one of the reasons I love doing it because you just know the feeling you get from the audience at the end.

“Not many people can go to work and know that they’re going to laugh.”

Despite being in its tenth year, Spamalot’s run of success shows no signs of slowing down, and Pasquale thinks this is due to its constantly updating content.

“The show changes on a nightly basis depending on what’s going on in the news,” he says. “At the moment we’ve got a couple of Jeremy Clarkson gags in.

“If you’ve seen the show before, expect it to change.

“Monty Python have had a huge fanbase for the last 40 years. Once you get a fan for Monty Python you get a fan for life.

“We have a guy that comes that’s been to see it 17 times!”

This won’t be Pasquale’s first appearance on a Brighton stage, as he has performed here in The Play What I Wrote, as well as a string of stand up shows.

“I’m looking forward to coming down to Brighton,” he says. “Normally I just do one night of stand up so it’ll be nice to spend a week there.”

It’s clear that onstage is where he most looks forward to spending his time.

“I love the show,” he concludes, “I can’t say more than that.”

Maddie Maynard

Spamalot
Theatre Royal Brighton, New Road, Monday, March 30, to Saturday, April 4

Starts 7.45pm, 2.30pm matinées Thurs and Sat, tickets from £10.50. Call 08448 717650.