Review: The Producers at Garrick Theatre

⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Four Stars)

After its sell-out run at the Menier Chocolate Factory, The Producers has made a much-anticipated leap into the West End with this transfer to the Garrick Theatre. Directed by Patrick Marber, this revival of the show (first seen on stage in 2001) retains all of Mel Brooks’ trademark brash humour, with a book by Brooks and Thomas Meehan and music & lyrics by Brooks himself. While some of the jokes now feel a little dated and the shock-factor gags (such as the sudden appearance of swastikas) don’t always land as they once might have, this remains a hugely entertaining production.

The plot follows the conniving Broadway producer Max Bialystock (played by Andy Nyman who is delightfully scheming in the role) and his nervous accountant Leo Bloom (played by Marc Antolin who is full of jittery charm). The pair concoct a plan to stage a musical so terrible and offensive it is sure to close immediately in order to scam their investors out of two million dollars. Thus Springtime for Hitler: A Gay Romp With Adolf and Eva at Berchtesgaden is brought to the Great White Way, and chaos ensues.

What makes this production such a treat to watch is the commitment of its cast, all delivering gloriously exaggerated performances. Every character is a caricature turned up to eleven, and the result is irresistibly funny. Paul Farnsworth’s fabulously flamboyant costumes add flair at every turn, while Scott Pask’s versatile set design cleverly transforms the stage with minimal fuss. Under the musical direction of Matthew Samer, the score sounds lush and full-bodied, providing the perfect backdrop to Lorin Latarro’s energetic choreography.

The show is at its most dazzling during the big ensemble numbers, such as “I Wanna Be a Producer” and “Springtime for Hitler,” which bring all the Broadway glitz, glamour, and tap-dancing spectacle an audience could wish for.

Though The Producers may show its age in places, this revival is outrageous, extravagant, and gloriously silly. It’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers plenty of laughs and spectacle.

The Producers runs at Garrick Theatre until 21st February 2026.

Photos by Manuel Harlan