Trinity Theatre Company kicks off its first Grown Up Stage production this year with Monty Python’s Edukational Show
Hello dear reader!!!! After one of our favorite posts regarding the best of theatre in San Diego for 2025, we are back for another year of reviews, articles, interviews, and beyond.
Trinity Theatre Company kicks off its first Grown Up Stage production this year with Monty Python’s Edukational Show, written by the minds of Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle, Terry Jones, and Michael Palin. The 80-minute, no-intermission piece is exactly what it promises to be: super silly British humor stitched together with wit, satire, and a complete disregard for logic. If you are familiar with Monty Python, this production feels like a joyful reunion. If you’re not (like me), it works surprisingly well as an introduction. I had never seen any Monty Python iteration before, and this was a fun, accessible entry point. You end up laughing—sometimes at the absurdity, sometimes at the sheer commitment of the performers.
Abi Hood directs a fun, vibrant cast that’s clearly enjoying themselves, taking on multiple roles throughout fan-favorite sketches like The Dead Parrot, The Ministry of Silly Walks, The Lumberjack Song, and more—reimagined for the stage in a playful, chaotic fashion.
Trinity regular Tim Baran returns with ease, seamlessly incarnating both grouchy and bubbly personas. Sean Libiran feels genuine and playful, while Isadora Swann captivates with wit and sass that land confidently with the audience. Tommy Huebner hits the punchlines—literally—often topping them off with a well-timed side eye. Jeremy Collins showcases both strong comedic instincts and choreographic skill. Brett Morris balances seriousness with charm, and Christy Reid, anchoring the production at the piano, guides the troupe with great energy, projection, and musical momentum.
The lighting design is lively and quick-paced, matching the rhythm of the scenes and helping the audience stay engaged through the rapid transitions. I appreciated the raised platform, though it’s worth noting that the actors get very close—closer than an arm’s length in certain moments. If you’re a shy audience member, I recommend sitting in the third row or beyond.
Audience interaction is woven throughout in ways that I’ll keep nameless so you can experience it yourself. Let’s just say: participation is optional, but awareness is encouraged.
With John Cleese having been in San Diego just last year on his Not Dead Yet tour, it’s clear the Monty Python brand still has plenty of life left in it. This production felt like a light, energetic welcome to the 2026 theatre year—something joyful, engaging, and refreshingly unserious.
Needless to say, having the theatre be inside Mission Valley Mall makes it even more fun with shopping and dining opportunities before and after the show.
Monty Python’s Edukational Show is currently running through January 25. For more information, click here.
