The Producers
Review by Sam
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mel Brooks' legendary comedy musical returns to London with the first major revival since 2015, but is the show still doomed to fail or do Bialystock & Bloom have another smash-hit on their hands?
Proudly proclaiming itself as an “equal opportunity offender!”, the show follows failing Broadway producer Max Bialystock and his accountant Leo Bloom, who attempt to create the biggest flop in theatre history. However, not all goes to plan when "Springtime for Hitler" backfires spectacularly and is met with thunderous applause and critical acclaim. Book writers Thomas Meehan and Mel Brooks' material remains as original and irresistable as ever, seamlessly alternating between farce and satire to tell this hillariously daring comedy in a show that is funnier than ever before.
Directory Patrick Marber has injected a breath of fresh air into the material with this dazzling production, utililizng the intimate Menier Chocolate Factory space to highlight and magnify comedic moments through demonstratration of a clear love and appreciation for the text. With show posters on either side of the stage which intimitantly change throughout, Marber's masterful direction is elevated by Lorin Latarro's stunning choreography and Scott Pask's goregously creative set design, all working in perfect harmony to make the funny even funnier.
The entire ensemble are nothing short of dazzling, led by a principal cast of performers who all command the stage with effortless comedic charm. Andy Nyman arguably steals the show, exhausting himself with non-stop commitment to clowining around as the sleazy Bialystock. He is perfectly paired with Marc Antolin, who whilst being efforltessly charming, has unmatched theatrical chemistry with Nyman which make them an utter joy to behold.
The Producers is far from 'the worst show in town' as it wraps up a sold-out run at the Menier Choclate Factory. Combining a killer ensemble with hysterically funny direction, the show is a theatrical delight which could run for years... and that dream may well become a reality as this critically acclaimed production transfers to the Garrick Theatre from 30th August.