GOLD to live broadcast final night of Monty Python's stage show
GOLD, the comedy-centric satellite channel, has announced that it will be broadcasting the final ever performance of the Monty Python Live (mostly): One Down Five to Go stage show directly from The O2 Arena on Sunday 20th July 2014.
The programming will begin with a live back stage programme and culminate with the Python's final ever stage show, aired on the channel for up to three hours live on the night.
Eric Idle says: "What could be finer at the end of a long life in comedy, than a chance to reunite with old pals and say goodbye to all our fans in one final mad musical show. We are very excited that not only do we get the chance to screw up on stage, we get a chance to screw up live on TV too."
UKTV's Richard Watsham comments: "It's a huge step in Gold's evolution to be part of such a significant national event and to be broadcasting it live so that everyone can be there. Monty Python is arguably the most influential comedy group the country has ever known and it's a matter of great pride that they've trusted us with celebrating their very last night together."
Monty Python Live (Mostly) sees the five remaining stars of the comedy troupe reunite on stage for the first time in the UK in over 40 years. They will perform for ten nights across 1-5, 15, 17-20 July 2014, with the show on the 20th July confirmed as their last ever. Today's news follows the previous announcement that 450 cinemas across the UK and 1,500 across the world will screen the final performance.
In addition to the transmission of the final stage show, Gold has also announced a five part documentary series, due to air later in the year.
The as yet untitled series, produced in association with Python (Monty) Pictures Ltd, will celebrate the nation's favourite Monty Python's Flying Circus sketches and the effect that they have had on the comedy world. It will include the very best footage from their TV programmes and insights from some of the biggest names in comedy on the extraordinary influence of the Pythons.
Meanwhile the BBC has also lined up a documentary, which will air in advance of the stage shows. Imagine... Monty Python: And Now For Something Rather Similar, due to air shortly, will observe as the comedy group prepare for the stage shows.
Below is the latest behind-the-scenes video:
Monty Python are currently auctioning off, for charity, the chance to appear on stage with them. More details are explained in this video:
The stage show will feature new music alongside classics. This music will also be released in a new album. Below is the video for the new Silly Walks Song: