Monty Python stage show to air on GOLD

The final Monty Python stage show is to be broadcast live on UKTV’s comedy channel GOLD as well as a five part series.

GOLD, part of the UKTV network, 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 on Sunday 20th July 2014.

The event will begin with a live back stage programme and will culminate with the Python’s final ever stage show, aired on the channel for up to three hours live on the night.

“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.” – Richard Watsham, UKTV Director of Commissioning

Monty Python Live (Mostly) sees the five stars reunited on stage for the first time in the UK in over 40 years, at the London O2 Arena for ten memorable nights from 1-5th, 15th, 17-20th July 2014. After selling out the initial run, the seating capacity of the shows has been increased, meaning more tickets are now available from www.montypythonlive.com.

“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.” – Eric Idle, on behalf of The Pythons

In addition to the transmission of the final night of the Monty Python Live (mostly): One Down Five to Go performance, Gold has also announced a special five part series, due to air later in the year, to provide the ultimate Monty Python season.

The as yet untitled series, also produced by Phil McIntyre Television 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.

The broadcast on Gold on Sunday 20th July is the first time in UKTV’s 21-year history that an event of this magnitude will be aired live on the channel. It is hoped that those who watch the live show from the comfort of their homes, will also share their experience with others through the staging of ‘Python’ parties to celebrate both the content and the sense of the national event.

Phil McIntyre Television has also worked with Gold this year on new commission Porridge: Inside Out, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the hit British sitcom. It performed 124% above slot average reaching two million individuals.