Originally broadcast as just a sketch show on BBC One, Monty Python would go on to become a multimedia phenomenon. Spin-off films were produced, albums, video games, the works. Even today some 45 years later, new products are still being made, such as the Monty Python version of the card game Fluxx. In terms of performance media however, the live productions are often the most underrated. Long before Spamalot became one of the most popular musicals on both Broadway and The West End, the Pythons themselves were thrilling live audiences all over the world. Back in the day they toured Britain with recordings of performances such as those from Drury Lane given their own release. This weekend however, see the much anticipated final night of the reunion show, Monty Python Live (Mostly), which will be performed at London's O2 arena, broadcast on TV channel Gold, as well to cinema screens the world over. For the group that spawned the word "Pythonesque", which is defined by the Oxford Dictionary as "absurdist or surrealist humour or style", it was live performances that often gave the troupe their best laughs. This unique media offered the revered comedians a greater deal of spontaneity, and interaction with the audience; something which a screen can only dream of. Although many performances may now be favourite Python moments, at the time their unpredictability was just that, purely unpredictable. Although the current Monty Python Live (almost) shows have been putting a new spin on some of their most classic material, here is just a small list of five ways in which Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin have previously entertained, captivated, and above all surprised their live audiences. One thing that won't be a surprise to any true fan however, like many of the best Monty Python moments, these are decidedly Not Safe For Work..
