Written by David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson and Zoë Roberts.
Lyrics by David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson and Zoë Roberts.
Directed by Robert Hastie
Choreography by Jenny Arnold
Review by Charlene Friar
Winner of the 2024 Olivier Award for Best New Musical, Operation Mincemeat arrives at Glasgow’s Theatre Royal with an extraordinary true story, outrageous humour and an exceptionally talented cast.
Based on one of the most audacious British intelligence operations of the Second World War, the musical follows a seemingly ridiculous plan to deceive the Nazis using a dead body and falsified documents. It sounds utterly absurd, yet remarkably, it worked.
Opening with a cheerful introduction to Ewen Montagu, the production immediately launches into a whirlwind of infectious songs, chaotic choreography and razor-sharp comedy. The ingenious book, music and lyrics by David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson and Zoë Roberts, combined with Robert Hastie’s slick direction, create a gloriously entertaining theatrical triumph. The writing is quick, clever and intelligent, with jokes arriving at breakneck speed. Particularly hilarious is the banter involving Ian Fleming and his ambitions to write a novel.
The outstanding five-strong cast, Christian Andrews, Seán Carey, Charlotte Hanna Williams, Jamie-Rose Monk and Holly Sumpton, demonstrate extraordinary versatility. Their ability to switch effortlessly between multiple characters, accents and personalities is remarkable. Each transformation is instantly recognisable, showcasing exceptional comic timing and wonderful chemistry.
A particular standout is Andrews as Hester, whose breathtaking performance of Dear Bill provides the evening’s most poignant moment. His heartbreaking portrayal of wartime separation and longing is delivered with extraordinary tenderness, earning the biggest applause of the night. Amid the relentless comedy, this beautiful number serves as a powerful reminder of the real lives affected by war.
Musically, the production is gloriously unpredictable. The second half opens with rapping Nazis and provocative choreography reminiscent of an early-2000s music video. It is completely outrageous, utterly ridiculous and absolutely brilliant. What makes Operation Mincemeat so special is its ability to balance absurd comedy with genuine emotional depth. Just as audiences find themselves laughing uncontrollably, the production delivers a moment of unexpected tenderness.
The beautiful conclusion honours the real man whose body became central to the operation, ensuring his humanity is never forgotten. It is a fitting and deeply moving tribute.
A thoroughly deserved standing ovation greeted the final curtain. Operation Mincemeat is an absolute triumph. Fast, chaotic, outrageously funny and unexpectedly heartbreaking, it delivers everything wonderful about live theatre. With phenomenal performances, ingenious writing and an extraordinary true story, this is musical theatre at its absolute finest
Musical Theatre at its Finest
Operation Mincemeat runs at The Theatre Royal, Glasgow until 14th November
Running time: Two hours and thirty-five minutes without interval
Photo credit – Matt Crockett
Review by Charlene Friar (contact@corrblimey.uk)
Charlene Friar is a Scottish screenwriter, reviewer and podcast host with an MA in TV Fiction Writing. She writes about film, television and theatre, and hosts Before the Credits, interviewing people working across the screen industries. She is also developing a slate of original film and television projects, with upcoming review work for Launch magazine.
