Le Navet Bete, known for their high-energy physical comedy, return with their latest production, King Arthur, bringing slapstick, physical theatre, and plenty of laughs to the Lowry. This award-winning comedy troupe has built a reputation for clever reimagining's of classic tales, and this show is no different. Directed by John Nicholson, the production offers a fresh, irreverent take on the Arthurian legend, blending historical parody with modern comedic sensibilities. Their unique brand of humour is infectious, and the result is a laugh-out-loud spectacle that appeals to audiences of all ages.
The plot follows three hopeless squires—Edgar, Osbert, and Dave—who find themselves tasked with staging a play about Camelot’s greatest legends. However, as they soon discover, Camelot’s tales are rather dull, and the legends are far from legendary. In a desperate attempt to avoid execution, the trio scrambles to create an epic story, reinventing Arthurian figures with outrageous twists. From a chef-like Lancelot with a terrible French accent to a loony Merlin obsessed with laundry, the play within a play is as bizarre as it is hilarious.
Despite the apparent disorder, the show remains a cleverly constructed piece of theatre, with a fast-moving plot that manages to balance absurdity with charm. The trio of squires is central to the chaos, and their failures and farcical improvisations keep the audience on their toes, never knowing what will happen next.
There’s also plenty of audience interaction, with the cast breaking the fourth wall on several occasions. From handing out Latex vegetables to members of the audience to throw at the cast to involving the audience in their chaotic antics, the show feels refreshingly interactive, inviting us to be part of the absurdity.
Fi Russell's set design is one of the production's standout features, with a castle backdrop that cleverly transforms into a show tent and other outlandish locations. The imaginative use of space keeps the action fluid, and the actors make full use of the dynamic staging to enhance the show's chaotic energy. The costumes are a perfect match for the production’s tone—vivid, exaggerated, and gloriously over-the-top. Merlin’s robes and Guinevere’s flamboyant dress add another layer of comedic brilliance, especially when paired with the frequent, rapid costume changes.
Lighting by Stuart Billinghurst adds dramatic flair, especially during the show’s more outrageous moments, while Jonny Wharton’s music injects an upbeat energy into the production. The use of pop songs, including a medieval rendition of "I Want to Break Free," ensures the humour is contemporary, adding to the fun.
The trio of Nick Bunt, Al Dunn, and Matt Freeman deliver a masterclass in physical comedy. Bunt’s portrayal of both a teenage King Arthur and the bumbling Mordred provides a sharp contrast, highlighting his versatility. Dunn’s Lancelot, complete with an over-the-top French accent, is an audience favourite, while Freeman’s turn as the perpetually confused squire Dave brings warmth and hilarity to the performance. The actors’ impeccable timing and boundless energy keep the audience engaged, with each one effortlessly switching between multiple characters, often in the blink of an eye. The trio’s incredible chemistry allows them to bounce off each other with ease, and it’s clear they’re having as much fun on stage as the audience is in their seats.
Le Navet Bete’s King Arthur is a brilliantly absurd, family-friendly romp that offers an energetic blend of physical comedy, slapstick, and inventive silliness. While the plot may veer into the ridiculous at times, it's exactly this sense of chaotic fun that makes the show so enjoyable. With cheeky jokes for the adults, plenty of slapstick for the kids, and clever audience interaction, it delivers on its promise of belly laughs for all ages. Whether you're a fan of Monty Python-esque humour or just looking for a night of pure fun, King Arthur at The Lowry is an absolute must-see. Its joyful performances and clever staging will leave you grinning long after the final curtain. A four-star delight that shouldn’t be missed.
King Arthur is at The Lowry until Saturday 28th September 2024, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Craig Fuller
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.
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