Review: The Producers is Pure Comedic Gold

The Celebrated Mel Brooks musical is back in London, promising an evening full of hilarity!

★★★★★

Let’s be real here: The Producers has always been an uproarious masterpiece, but this revival, currently gracing the stage at the Menier Chocolate Factory, takes this classic to new heights. It is truly a comedic tour de force that has the audience, myself included, laughing so hard that we were in tears. The genius of this revival lies in its ability to adapt the splendor of a big, flashy Broadway musical into the Menier’s intimate space, creating a condensed, immersive experience that truly works wonders. This is, without a doubt, one of the funniest nights I have had at the theatre in a while. 

The cast is a work of true comedic and musical talent. Andy Nyman is a powerhouse as Max Bialystock, delivering every line and song with a manic energy that will keep you riveted. His chemistry with Marc Antolin as the Neurotic yet lovable Leo Bloom is of utmost perfection. Antolin captures Leo’s jittery charm with a vulnerability that makes his journey even more satisfying. Johanna Woodward shines as Ula, effortlessly blending sex appeal with razor-sharp comedic timing. And Trevor Ashley? An absolute revelation as Roger. Ashley’s performance as the flamboyant director-turned-Nazi is a masterclass in comedic timing and camp, making Roger a queer icon for the ages. His delivery of “Keep It Gay” practically brought the house down!

Patrick Marber’s direction is razor-sharp, breathing new life into a show that already sparkles with wit. He’s preserved all the elements that made the original a classic while infusing the production with a fresh, inventive staging. The decision to use the Menier’s smaller space to its advantage creates an intimacy that amplifies the comedy, drawing the audience into the absurd world of Max and Leo. At times, Marber even brings the action off stage and into the audience, blurring the lines between performance and reality in the best way possible.

Lorin Lattaro’s choreography perfectly blends precision and chaos, heightening the hilarity with every step. From the controlled chaos of “We Can Do It” to the outrageous spectacle of “Springtime for Hitler,” her choreography is comedic gold that helps enhance every laugh and gag. 

What can I say about Mel Brooks's score? The songs remain as laugh out, loud, funny, and sharply satirical as ever. His work is truly timeless!

This production is truly a must-see event! The run is completely sold out, but if you can beg, borrow, or steal a ticket, do it! This is a production that absolutely demands a West End transfer, and hopefully soon. The team behind this production have created a comedic masterpiece that deserves to be shared with the widest audience possible. Bravo to everyone involved for bringing back one of the greatest musicals of all time and making it feel as fresh and funny as ever.

The Producers - Menier Chocolate Factory

Attended on 16 December 2024