Entering its third year in the West End and it’s fifteenth extension, the multiple award-winning hit from humble beginnings keeps demanding a crowd. Originally a commission at the New Diorama in 2019, what began life in a small venue has gradually taken the world by storm. Playing simultaneously in London and New York, the production will embark on a tour to China, Canada, Mexico, Australia, New Zealand and the USA next year. No mean feat for a new musical.
The story takes us back to 1943 with a covert operation to deceive the Nazi troops that changed the outcome of World War 2. If you don’t know your European history, do not fear. While making us laugh aloud and burst into applause after each perfectly executed number, we are also presented with facts.
It’s no exaggeration to say the cast are simply stunning. Their vocal ability, cohesion and comic timing are second to none. Alex Young as Ewen Montagu commands laughter whenever on stage. She, too, seems to be having a great deal of fun. Peter McGovern as Charles is endearing, accessibly vulnerable and showcases stellar vocals. Chlöe Hart is phenomenal as chief whip, Johnny Bevan and also serves as dance captain. Paul Isiah Isles is also responsible for the impressive choreography. Roshani Abbey’s Jean Leslie maintains the high energy of the piece. Danny Becker completes the cast with a memorable turn as Hester Leggatt.
It’s easy to see why the show is such a success. Blending fact with over-the-top humour and well-written lyrics, the production caters to all. The cast are all on their A-game, making this a memorable evening of entertainment. The band, under the musical direction of Joe Bunker, also excel.
Proof, if ever there was that new talent should be cultivated, Operation Mincemeat may well be one of theatre’s greatest success stories. Believe the hype – this is highly recommended.
Review by Jonathan Marshall
Cast: Roshani Abbey, Geri Allen, Danny Becker, Chlöe Hart, Madeleine Jackson-Smith, George Jennings, Jason Kajdi, Peter McGovern, Alex Young
Book, music and lyrics by David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson, Zoë Roberts
Director – Robert Hastie
Choreographer – Jenny Arnold
Set and Costume Designer – Ben Stones
Lighting Designer – Mark Henderson
Sound Designer – Mike Walker
Orchestration and Vocal Arrangement – Steve Sidwell
Casting Director – Pearson Casting CDG
Operation Mincemeat continues its extended run at the West End’s Fortune Theatre until 28th February 2026 and launches its world tour with a 40-week UK run, beginning on 16th February 2026 at the Lowry in Salford. Tickets on sale: Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical at Fortune Theatre
OPERATION MINCEMEAT UK TOUR
New Theatre Oxford
Tue 31 Mar – Sat 4 Apr 2026
Regent Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent
Mon 27 Apr – Sat 2 May 2026
The Alexandra, Birmingham
Mon 11 May – Sat 16 May 2026
Theatre Royal Brighton
Mon 25 May – Sat 30 May 2026
Grand Opera House York
Mon 1 Jun – Sat 6 Jun 2026
Milton Keynes Theatre
Mon 8 Jun – Sat 13 Jun 2026
New Victoria Theatre, Woking
Mon 15 Jun – Sat 20 Jun 2026
Theatre Royal Glasgow
Tue 10 Nov – Sat 14 Nov 2026
