Monty Python's Spamalot makes a triumphant return to the River City for a one night stand Thursday, Feb. 16, at the Times Union Center.  This outrageous musical is based on the cult classic Monty Python and The Holy Grail, and is best described as "lovingly ripped off" from the film with music and lyrics from the Grammy Award-winning duo Eric Idle and John Du Prez.

Cast member Michael J. Berry, who plays Patsy, one of King Arthur's most trusted Knights ("who may or may not say knee"), describes the production as "something for everybody across the board, a big bawdy comedy, with quick witted word play. No matter what your sense of humor, you are going to come out laughing.

"The music is incredible, the dance numbers are great, and the costumes are over the top, despite my character only having one. What else would a knight wear really?" Berry said.

This is Berry's first major touring production, and he says although he's adjusting to the travel schedule, the work is rewarding.

"Just hearing the laughter from the audience, I know that sounds cheesy, but I think that with all that's going on in our country, it's great to give people a two hour escape, a chance to sit back and smile and laugh. For me that's a great way to give back." 

Berry grew up in a family that was totally into Monty Python, and that may have triggered his affinity for acting. After graduating from Boston University, he studied at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art and received a degree in Shakespeare and classical acting. This, of course, is very important when performing a British accent every night.

"I definitely know the show, and because I knew the style of humor," Berry said. "It's a very specific style -- it has helped me play the part. It's the kind of thing our director tells us all the time, 'The material is funny; you are not.' You just have to play the words as straight and seriously as possible. The words are so ridiculous, and that is what is funny."

Berry and the rest of the cast and crew of Spamalot are looking forward to stopping in Jacksonville. He says it's fun to see the reactions of people in different parts of the country. From small towns to big cities the show plays well, and the humor is well received.

There are available through The Artist Series and can be purchased either online or by calling 904-632-3373.

Berry describes it as a great post-Valentines night out that wouldn't hurt to check out. "And if it does, I'm sure it's merely a flesh wound."