There’s a certain difference between classic British humor and most other types of humor. For one, it’s relentlessly clever. For two, while it sometimes relies on slapstick, it never relies on shock value alone. There’s something uniquely self-deprecating and sarcastic that the Brits bring to the stage, and it’s all on display for Cincinnati Landmark Production’s “Monty Python’s SPAMalot,” on stage now at the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater.

For those familiar with the classic “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” this musical romp will feel right at home. For those uninitiated souls, prepare to fall in love. “SPAMalot” combines everything that makes a great musical comedy: dirty jokes, an unrelenting barrage of puns, and a surprise “coming out of the closet.”

“SPAMalot” tells the musical journey of the King Arthur (Rodger Pille), on a mission to find knights for his quest. He has recently been made King of the Britons by the Lady of the Lake (the operatic Allison Bredestege) and is looking to grow his rule. His travels highlight one of the most iconic relationships in film, that of King Arthur and his servant Patsy (Aaron Whitehead). While they cannot presumably afford a horse, Arthur mock-gallops around with Patsy using coconuts to make the sound of horse-hooves. Writing that sentence feels absurd.

Making a play based on a movie is a risky proposition by default. It’s similar to watching the movie version of a book you’ve loved — how will it compare? There are always, by necessity, things moved and changed to make it work. Turning your favorite movie into a musical with live actors is an even riskier proposition.

Well, in this case, it works great! The musical first debuted in 2005, and has been making the rounds ever since. CLP’s version lives up mightily to the Broadway version (though I’ve never seen the Broadway version, so I’m just assuming, based on how good it is). The comedic timing is great. The sets, props and costumes are all meticulously made, as always. The only recurring problem that I saw was that for some reason, cast members kept losing their hats. This includes a Jewish hat with a Holy Grail caterwauling across the stage, a nun’s habit flung aside, a wide-brimmed felt hat, and possibly others.

The excitement before the show was palpable, and the laughter throughout was raucous and good-natured. A standing ovation at curtain was well-earned.

I happened to be seated next to the wife of Lancelot (Brett Bowling), and without spoiling things, she had much cause to be blushing and giggling nervously somewhere near the middle of the show. Side note: nice ass, Brett.

If you go, their snack bar is ridiculously cheap, and if you’re a woman, sprint to the bathroom at intermission — the line gets SUPER long.

“Monty Python’s SPAMalot” runs through April 8 at the Warsaw Federal Incline Theater.

John David Back is a Cincinnati native who lives and works in OTR. He’s an avid reader and a mediocre writer who loves the experience of art and beauty. Tell him what he should experience and send fan mail to johndavidback@gmail.com.