A knight to remember

Clay Aiken joins Monty Python’s SPAMALOT
The Funniest Show on Earth
January 18 – May 4, 2008 on Broadway

Clay Aiken, who became a music superstar following his success on the American Idol television series, will join the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, Monty Python’s SPAMALOT, making his Broadway debut in the role of Sir Robin, at the Shubert Theatre, New York, from January 18 to May 4, 2008.

Tickets are available online now at telecharge.com or by calling (212) 239-6200/(800) 432-7250.

Directed by Mike Nichols, who won his eighth Tony Award for his direction of the new musical, Monty Python’s SPAMALOT has a book by Eric Idle, "lovingly ripped-off" from the screenplay of the Pythons’ best- loved film, Monty Python and the Holy Grail by Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones and Michael Palin.   The music is by Eric Idle and John DuPrez.

Clay Aiken, who has sold more than 6 million albums; co-authored a best-selling book; and, played six sold-out concert tours, said “I really couldn't have asked for a more wonderful group of people to work with. Let’s not lie, the chance to work with legendary creative minds like Mike Nichols and Eric Idle is, on its own, a reason to jump at this opportunity. More>>>

But, that's not all.  The producers and creative folks I have had the chance to meet and work with so far have been unbelievably welcoming and wonderful. They've really made me feel at home already, and I haven't even started yet!”

SPAMALOT author and original Python Eric Idle commented: “This is great news.  I have been a Clay Aiken fan ever since I took my daughter to see him live on the second season of American Idol and she held up a big sign of his name.  Maybe now it should read ‘American Idle.’”

 Director Mike Nichols said: “Clay Aiken is amazing beyond that glorious voice.  Turns out he is an excellent comic actor and a master of character.  People will be surprised by his wide ranging talent, since the first impression is of great country charm and a singer to remember.  This guy is not only a star, he is a lot more.  We are lucky to get him for SPAMALOT.”

Other members of the SPAMALOT creative team include Casey Nicholaw (choreography), multiple Olivier Award-winners Tim Hatley (sets and costumes) and Hugh Vanstone (lighting) and Acme Sound Partners. 

Winning more awards than any other show in the 2005 Broadway Season, including the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Grammy Award for Best Cast Recording, SPAMALOT has set box office records since opening on Broadway to critical acclaim in March, 2005 at the flagship Shubert Theatre. 

Monty Python’s SPAMALOT celebrates one year in London’s West End at the Palace Theatre this week.  SPAMALOT is also on National Tour around the US and is playing at Wynn Las Vegas.  An Australian production will open in November in Melbourne. 

Monty Python's SPAMALOT is produced by Boyett Ostar Productions, The Shubert Organization, Arielle Tepper, Stephanie McClelland/Lawrence Horowitz, Elan V. McAllister/Allan S. Gordon, Independent Presenters Network, Roy Furman, GRS Associates, Jam Theatricals, TGA Entertainment and Live Nation.

http://www.montypythonsspamalot.com

Press Contact for Monty Python’s SPAMALOT
Boneau/Bryan-Brown
(212) 575-3030
Adrian Bryan-Brown  abrown@bbbway.com
Jackie Green jgreen@bbbway.com