“Monty Python’s Edukational Show” is an irreverent series of sketches, songs and one-liners promising to leave audiences rolling in the aisles.
“I sit there and watch rehearsal and I laugh my butt off,” said Key Players actor John Pettit.
“I think if you’re looking for a good laugh, you should definitely come and see this show, “ added Key Players actor Jessica Garcia. “It’s going to be relatable for people of all ages.”
This is the first time the Key Players, the Upper Keys theatrical troupe, has taken on a Monty Python production. Director Michele Zofchak, known to many around town simply as Ms. Z., calls the timing of this comedy perfect.
“What I really wanted to do was to give the community an opportunity to be light-hearted and forget anything that might be bothering them,” said Zofchak, who also teaches and runs the Drama Club at Key Largo School. “To just be in the moment and just be absolutely silly and absurd, and I believe the audience will love it.”
To say Zofchak has a lot on her plate is an understatement. Not only is she directing this production, she is directing “Matilda” for the Key Largo School Drama Club and was recently invited to bring the cast of Junie B. Jones, KLS’ most recent production, up to Ocean Reef for a performance at the Keys Children’s Foundation luncheon.
“I have no idea how Ms. Z does it,” said show producer and technical director Jonelle Kop.
“Monty Python’s Edukational Show” is based on Monty Python’s Flying Circus, the British comedy television show, whose actors also made several comedy films and live performance concerts. It includes sketches from famous scenes like the Spanish Inquisition and the Spam song. The show consists of 18 sketches, including six musical numbers.
“It’s Monty Python at its best,” Kop said.
Kop describes the show as physical and fast-moving, with quick costume, prop and set changes. Each of the 11 cast members brings a unique style to the stage.
“Everybody has to create their own silly walk,” added Kop.
The youngest member of the cast is a junior in high school; the oldest is in his 70s.
This is Moshe Morgan’s first time acting in a Key Players production, but not his first time on stage. Morgan relocated to Key Largo two years ago; a friend persuaded him to be in the show and he’s glad she did. For Morgan, seeing the show come together is like watching the pieces of a puzzle fall into place.
“I always love seeing the different pieces that everyone brings to it,” said Morgan, whose day job is general manager of Sundowners, Cactus Jacks and Salty’s.
“It’s never a one-person show, it’s everyone coming together, all the personalities coming together, all the pieces that everyone brings and watching those fit into something amazing,” he added.
“Monty Python’s Edukational Show” opens on Thursday, Jan. 29 and runs through Feb. 7 for a total of seven performances at the Murray Nelson Cultural Center at MM 102 in Key Largo.
Adult tickets are $20 and available at the door or at thekeyplayers.org. Advance tickets are available for $15 at Key Largo Chocolates and Ice Cream at MM 100.5, Shear Paradise at MM 99.3 and the PostNet Store at MM 88. Tickets for those in high school and younger can be purchased at the door for $10 with proof of age.
