Self-described as "An evening of songs, skits and skirts," featuring old and new material, the show kicked off its 46-city romp Oct. 3 in Rutland, Vermont and continues through Dec. 20 where it ends with a gig in Los Angeles. Accompanying Idle are John Du Prez, Nigel Spasm, the Bruces, Sir Dirk McQuickly of The Rutles, Peter Crabbe, Jennifer Julian and "some mystery guests."

Idle will next adapt the movie "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" into a musical — currently using the developmental title SPAMELOT.

The stage show is scheduled to reign on Broadway in spring of 2005 after out-of-town engagements. Mike Nichols will direct the work and produce with Ostar Productions. Jerry Mitchell will choreograph. Scenic and costume designer Tim Hatley is also onboard the project.

"I like the title SPAMELOT a lot," the ever-promoting Idle stated in a release, "but I was thinking it might be smart to ask audiences on my upcoming U.S. tour if they liked it as much as I do. After all, they are the ones who will be paying Broadway prices to see the show. So there's a good chance the title may change."

The new work will feature a book by Eric Idle based on the screenplay he co-wrote with Monty Python creators Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Terry Jones and Michael Palin. The show will include two songs from the original film and a completely new score with music and lyrics by Idle and John Du Prez.

For tickets and information on The Greedy Bastard Tour at Town Hall, 123 West 43rd Street, visit www.pythonline.com.