The Producers at Garrick Theatre Review
Written by Emmie for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
The Producers is an outrageous musical comedy by Mel Brooks (music & lyrics) and Thomas Meehan (book). It’s based on Brooks’ 1967 film of the same name and is one of the most successful musical comedies ever staged. A humorous look at Broadway and its producers, showbusiness greed, and the nonsense that is Nazism, The Producers returns to the West End following a revival staged at the Menier Chocolate Factory. Proving to be a smash hit over on the Great White Way and worldwide throughout the years, this new production brings together the glitz and glamour of Mel Brooks’ story, with a new sense of grit and innovation. Rather than a purely glitzy or glossy Broadway look, there’s a deliberate, more lived-in feel to some of the design, especially in the costumes (such as Max having an ill-fitting waistcoat). It gives the production an edge of realism even amid the absurdity.
The show originated at the small Menier Chocolate Factory, which forced creative staging solutions. Scott Pask’s design is able to combine the extravagance of Broadway while using the strengths of a smaller theatre. As the production has transferred to the Garrick, many of those design choices carry through. In moving into a larger theatre, there is more room for spectacle, more audience capacity, but the show still appears to be maintaining the original aesthetic rather than blowing up the scale too much. The gritty, satirical tone is ever present in this revival, directed by Patrick Marber, proving why The Producers always stands the test of time.
For this show to work, you need 2 charismatic leads to carry the bulk of the story, with chemistry and energy together. Thankfully, we have 2 acclaimed performances by the leading men who do it with ease - Max Bialystock, played by Andy Nyman, with Leo Bloom being portrayed by Marc Antolin. After seeing Nyman in Hello, Dolly last year, he’s sure cementing himself in the position to be Olivier-nominated 2 years in a row. He lights up the stage as Bialystock, utilising his charm to make us fall in love with a character who’s actually a lying, thieving crook. His aura works immaculately opposite Antolin as Bloom, his awkward demeanour and constant need to seek comfort from an old blue blanket, juxtaposing the effortless of Bialystock’s seedy nature. Antolin also shines as a dancer, leading the ensemble in a marvellous tap number with ‘I Wanna Be A Producer’, and gliding across the floor with Joanna Woodward in ‘That Face’.
Speaking of Woodward, the production is stacked in terms of its supporting and ensemble cast. Woodward is a delight as Ulla, showcasing her triple threat talents and enchanting personality, especially in ‘When You’ve Got It, Flaunt It’, which brought the house down. She is accompanied by one of Australia’s most celebrated stage performers, Trevor Ashley as Roger De Bris and his glamorous assistant Carmen Ghia, played by Raj Ghatak. Their quick-fire delivery and sharp timing create a rhythm where each line lands like a rally in a tennis match, only emphasised in the bigger moments of the piece. ‘Springtime for Hitler’ just kept getting better and better, while is got more and more nonsensical. The audience absolutely revelled in the craziness of this part of the show, so much so that it’s clear why a show like this would actually do well on Broadway, despite the promotion of one of the most hated people to have ever lived.
The work from Lorin Latarro as choreographer is precise and fitting for all the genres of song. There’s an abundance of tap throughout for all the classic musical lovers, coupled with fun, and Zimmer frame filled choreography, performed excellently by the cast. Packed with energy and originality, the movements burst off the stage, igniting the whole production with fire and energy. Each ensemble member gets their chance to shine in certain numbers, with standout performances coming especially from the likes of ‘Keep It Gay’ and ‘Prisoners of Love’.
Read here: Interview with Harry Morrison, The Producers
This razor-sharp production delivers on both substance and spectacle. With a cast impressing in all areas, dazzling creative choices and a score that never loses its punch, this outrageous musical is a force to be reckoned with at all upcoming award shows. Whether you’re a longtime fan or seeing it for the first time like I did, this new production is sure to be the West End’s hit of the year.
Bold, brash and brilliantly funny, The Producers is currently playing at the Garrick Theatre until the 21st of February 2026.
★★★★★
