The Producers, Menier Chocolate Factory Review
Written by Annie for Theatre and Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
One of the most highly anticipated revivals of the year has finally opened in London. The return of Mel Brooks’ widely renowned hit The Producers officially opened at the Menier Chocolate Factory for a limited run. A show that is so globally adored will always return with high expectations, having not been on the UK scene since 2015, and this production is the prime example of something worth the wait.
Based on the iconic 1967 film, the musical has been adored for years on both sides of the pond, and this production is no exception to the lore of this show’s popularity. It’s a show which really shouldn’t work in theory, but it’s so self-assured it is a stroke of pure genius. Surely a show in which its entire premise is based on producing a musical about Hitler rings alarm bells - but Brooks gets it so right that it's the perfect mix of satire, spoof, and wit.
This production is the perfect modern adaptation - it celebrates the much loved success of the show and honours its tradition without imitating. It’s a brilliantly fresh take on the show without trying to be so modern that it loses the classic elements we all know and love.
Brooks’ book and music is genius - the most harmonious blend of wit and satire - it’s a brilliantly farcical script without ever feeling over the top. The characters are insanely exaggerated but feel warm in their reception - making them so easy to love. It’s obvious from the first interaction with the lead characters that Brooks has let the audience in for a treat, and what a joy it is to be a part of that audience.
The Menier is a stunning venue, the perfect blend of what off-West End has to offer, whilst still feeling capable of handling a big show. It feels an ideal fit for The Producers, and the space lends itself to the show wonderfully.
Patrick Marber directs the show with such genius. It is such a breath of fresh air for a show that didn’t feel like it needed any work. The show is like gold dust for any production company as it really requires little to make it brilliant, but Marber has somehow turned something already perfect into something out of this world. It’s effortless in its delivery and unexpected in its natural satire.
The cast, led by Marc Antolin and Andy Nyman, is stellar in its professionalism. They play without effort and with honest leadership. Both are natural comedic actors, making every line believable and feeling as if they’re speaking off the cuff in front of your eyes, and not from a script.
Joanna Woodward stuns as Ulla, she is insanely talented and this role just shows her off in the most incredible way. The ensemble is a pure joy from start to finish - special mention has to go to Jermaine Woods whose comedic timing was sublime. His physical comedy is such a thrill and honestly had me in fits of laughter at multiple points.
Trevor Ashley was almost certainly born for the role of Roger De Bris, played with such wit and hilarity there’s no doubt they’re a natural born star. It’s not often you see someone on stage with that much bravado and presence - it was an honour to watch.
Choreography by Lorin Latarro is perfectly mad. It celebrates the legend that is the show without feeling imitable. It is slick, refined and complex yet feels so unpredictable in the most exciting manner. Every man and their dog will know “Springtime for Hitler” whether from the film or just from the soundtrack, and Letarro has mastered the iconography of the original without a straight copy and paste. Instead, he has managed to merge the original with his own and create a new masterpiece in its own right. The costumes by Paul Farnswoth only add to an already perfect show - the perfect mix of sleek with pure chaos. There really is little to not enjoy.
I must admit I was apprehensive that this show might not live up to such high expectations but I’m so pleased it not only meets them but totally smashes them out of the park. It’s a shame the show is playing such a limited run but I am keeping everything crossed for a transfer in 2025, and I find it hard to believe that this is it for this stellar production.
At Menier Chocolate Factory until 1 March 2025
★★★★★
