BONNIE Langford is quick to admit that some shows are just a joy to be in — and that Spamalot falls firmly into that category.

Bonnie plays the Lady in the Lake in the musical, loosely based on Monty Python and the Holy Grail, complete with the Knights Who Say Ni and other surreal creations from the Python team.

“I just love the silliness,” said Bonnie.

“It’s made very clear from the outset that this is a show in which you are allowed to laugh. Everyone comes away from it with a smile on their face.”

Monty Python fans are known for their devotion, often being able to recite complete sketches verbatim.

“I was not really a Python fan,” said Bonnie.

“I was a little too young to get into them when they had their TV series but, of course, I was aware of what they had done and I’m definitely a fan of Spamalot.

“You do get some rather large groups of males in the audience sometimes but the show attracts such a varied audience — and they all love it. It is a very slick production and it has to be,” said Bonnie.

“It’s a bit like a rollercoaster — once it gets going there’s no stopping it.”

Spamalot has become one of the surprise hits, selling out the West End and playing to packed houses around the country.

“It’s actually got a sweet story and musically it is also very strong,” said Bonnie, “so there is perhaps more to it than people might think.

“Also the characters don’t try to be funny. That never really works. Even though they are really silly, they don’t think they are, which is great.”

Bonnie has played the lead in many hit West End musicals but Spamalot has proved an enjoyable challenge even for someone of her experience.

“I’d been away from the theatre for a couple of years and was asked if I’d like to be the Lady of the Lake,”

she said.

“I wasn’t sure initially if physically I was right for the role as everyone who has played it before has been rather more statuesque than me. But they persuaded me I would be right for the role and I’m so glad they did.”

When the curtain comes down on Spamalot in Manchester that will be the end of the current national tour.

“I’ve been with the show since January and some of the cast have been with it even longer so it will be quite a sad day,” said Bonnie.

*Spamalot, Manchester Opera House, Monday, May 21 to Saturday, May 26. Details from 0844 871 3018.