South Baldwin Community Theatre is bringing a touch of Broadway to Baldwin County, as they prepare to open their first show of the new year; Monty Python's "Spamalot."

Inspired by the 1975 classic comedy "Monty Python and the Holy Grail," "Spamalot" tells the legend of King Arthur's quest to find the Holy Grail, with a few more musical numbers of course.

"This musical has taken the best parts of the movie and put music to it and a comedic twist," said Director, Marsha Guyer. "It's lovingly ripped off from the Holy Grail, if you appreciate Monty Python humor you will love this show."

Local theatre fans may recall that the theatre was originally projected to open the new year with "The Fantasticks." However, due to the death of author Tom Jones in August 2023, all licensing for the show was suspended.

Guyer said that while that was disappointing at first, it also provided the unique opportunity to search for a new show to replace it.

"We knew we wanted to stick with a musical, and I have a musical background. Someone had suggested "Spamalot," but I didn't take it seriously at first," Guyer said. "It can be an expensive show, especially with the licensing."

However, Guyer said that things soon began to fall into place.

"We got this in under the wire, because it is now back on Broadway (in New York City), and they don't let you do the show when it is on Broadway," Guyer said. "There are so many minute details that go into this show, with the comedy aspect every prop and song needs to fall into place or it is not as funny. There were a lot of details to hammer down, but I have been so blessed with this cast."

With a cast of over 40 actors, that is no small feat. From 13 to 72 years old, Guyer said the cast of "Spamalot" are not only talented actors, but have also taken part in building the sets and sewing costumes.

"This is a very large cast, and the chemistry has been outstanding. We also have several new folks to the theater, and this will be their first show with us," Guyer said. "We even have a tap dancing troop of snowbird ladies in our show, and they add a sparkle to the show in several places, it is so much fun. You can't help but laugh, smile and sing along."

Some may remember Guyer from her extensive history with the theatre, as she has served as president of the theatre and acted and directed in shows since 2008. Most recently, she starred in "The Guys" in September 2023.

"It has been so much fun to watch people click on stage and pull characters out that they didn't even know they had, when you're a director, you have a vision for the show and what I love most about directing is bringing out the character in the person and helping them mold that and blossom," Guyer said. "We are not Broadway, so we have had to downsize the show but I think we have pulled it off and I hope everyone else feels the same way. We have come a long way in a short time, and I can't say enough good things about this cast it has been so heartwarming to see."

While the show is currently sold out for all eight performances, Guyer said that interested parties can call the theatre at 251- 968-6721 to be placed on a waiting list for available tickets.