Expert Review: Outrageously Funny Broadway Satire

4.5
★★★★★

Expert Rating

The Verdict

The Producers is Mel Brooks at his most audacious and hilarious, offering a brilliantly crafted satire that pushes boundaries while delivering genuine laughs and surprising heart. This Tony Award-winning musical combines outrageous humor with sharp writing and memorable songs, creating a theatrical experience that's both shocking and deeply entertaining.

What Makes It Special

  • Mel Brooks' Genius: The master of comedy delivers razor-sharp satire that skewers Broadway, Nazi Germany, and show business with equal irreverence.
  • Outstanding Performances: The cast delivers powerhouse performances that balance the outrageous material with genuine character work.
  • Catchy Score: Memorable songs like "Springtime for Hitler" and "I Wanna Be a Producer" that perfectly capture the show's satirical spirit.
  • West End Production: The Garrick Theatre's traditional space provides the perfect setting for this Broadway satire.

Perfect For

Comedy lovers, Broadway aficionados, fans of satire and irreverent humor, and anyone who appreciates bold theatrical risks. Not for the easily offended!

Everything You Need to Know

The Scheme to Create a Flop

Down-on-his-luck Broadway producer Max Bialystock teams up with neurotic accountant Leo Bloom to produce the worst show possible, hoping to make more money from a flop than a hit. They find the perfect vehicle in "Springtime for Hitler," a musical love letter to the Third Reich written by deranged Nazi Franz Liebkind.

What to Expect

  • Outrageous satire that pushes boundaries while remaining cleverly crafted
  • The infamous "Springtime for Hitler" musical number
  • Complex characters who evolve from schemers to genuine friends
  • Sharp commentary on show business, greed, and artistic integrity
  • Surprising emotional moments amid the comedy
  • A celebration of theatre's transformative power

Musical Highlights

  • "The King of Broadway" - Max's nostalgic opening number about his former glory
  • "I Wanna Be a Producer" - Leo's dream song featuring dancing accountants
  • "We Can Do It" - The partners' scheming duet as they plot their flop
  • "Keep It Gay" - Roger De Bris's flamboyant anthem
  • "Springtime for Hitler" - The outrageous show-within-a-show centerpiece
  • "That Face" - Ulla's seductive number
  • "Prisoners of Love" - The touching finale

Musical Style: The score combines classic Broadway sound with contemporary sensibilities, featuring everything from showstoppers to intimate character songs that showcase Mel Brooks' musical theater mastery.

Practical Information

Show Times

  • Tuesday - Thursday: 7:30pm
  • Friday: 8:00pm
  • Saturday: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Sunday: 3:00pm
  • Monday: No performances

Getting There

  • Underground: Leicester Square (2 min walk), Charing Cross (4 min)
  • Alternative: Covent Garden (6 min walk)
  • Bus: Multiple routes to Charing Cross Road
  • Location: Heart of London's West End on Charing Cross Road
  • Parking: NCP car parks nearby - public transport recommended

Garrick Theatre Information

  • Historic theatre opened in 1889
  • Capacity: 718 seats
  • Named after legendary actor David Garrick
  • Fully accessible venue
  • Traditional West End theatre atmosphere
  • Close to Covent Garden for pre/post-show dining