The Producers

cheltenham Operatic and Dramatic Society

The Producers                  Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham                June 5th 2019

Director: Jason Blackburn

Choreographer: Stuart Driscoll                                                              MD: Joe Starr

The Producers is a musical adapted by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan from Brooks’ 1967 film of the same name.  There are several differences but the basic story of trying to make money by deceit remains the same. In truth this show should offend most of the audience with the inclusion of Jews, Nazis and homosexuals, but it is so outrageous it cannot be taken seriously.

There were many complex scene changes which were all handled efficiently by the crew, and masked by front of stage antics including the hilarious conga in ‘Keep it Gay’ which covered the change from Roger’s house back to Max’s Office.  The wardrobe team must have had a difficult task looking after the number of costumes required and the quick changes.  The makeup and wigs all added to the overall picture.  The props had been well sourced and were used effectively.  The lighting was well designed and cued.  The balance of sound between musicians and voices was good, with microphones being brought up on cue.  There were some lovely sound effects such as when the French doors in Max’s office were opened and all the street noises were heard. 

Choreographer Stuart Driscol admitted in his programme notes that he was going to be ‘tough and demanding’ with his dancers and it certainly paid off, they really did ‘sparkle on that stage’.  The routines were energetic, with everyone coordinated, lots of smiles, the hilarious zimmer frame dance, and a wonderfully synchronised swastika formation in ‘Springtime for Hitler’, seen in the overhead mirror.

Musical Director Joe Starr had done an excellent job.  There were some demanding musical numbers which everyone sang well, both principals and ensemble. ‘Der Guten Tag Hop-clop’ and ‘Keep it Gay’ were hilarious, the enjoyable ‘When You’ve Got it Flaunt it’, and the sincere ‘ ’Til Him’ were all well done.

The line up for this show is predominantly male but how varied the roles are; we have the larger than life ‘King of Broadway’, Max Bialystock, played with such energy and excellent timing by Ben Leeke.  The milder and self-effacing accountant Leo Bloom, played by Ben Wilson; the two of them created a wonderful partnership with their diverse characters, interaction and energy.  The lead female role is Ulla, the ‘want to be actress’, who they hire to be their “secretary-slash-receptionist".  Elizabeth Cox had worked hard on her Swedish accent and delivered a good portrayal of the naïve blonde bombshell.  What a wonderfully over the top role is Nazi, Franz Liebkind, and Ashley Frieze obviously enjoyed every minute.  Gary Haseley-Nejrup gave a lovely performance as gay Roger DeBris,  The scene in his very pink Townhouse delighted the audience, and his combined antics with Carmen Ghia, his ’common law assistant’, played to perfection by Des Rowlinson;  were hilarious.   The Showgirls added a touch of glamour to the show and danced really well.  The ensemble were amazing, they whole-heartedly supported the story and gave it their all, reacting well with lots of energy.

Director Jason Blackburn had obviously inspired his cast to embrace the outrageousness and hilarity of the show; the timing, comedic elements and energy were superb.  This was a real team effort with everyone who was involved in any way giving 110%.  The combination of lovely costumes; slick scene changing; good sound; appropriate lighting; well controlled music and enthusiastic singing; energetic, confident dancing; and skilful directing made this a show which delighted the audience, who responded with a standing ovation.  Congratulations everyone.

 

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