A RIPPING GOOD YARN WITH A JOLLY GOOD CAST
OPERATION MINCEMEAT LANDS ON BROADWAY
When I first encountered Operation Mincemeat at Riverside Studios in London back in 2022, it was a scrappy, spirited affair that, while brimming with potential, occasionally left one scratching one’s head. Fast forward to its Broadway debut at the Golden Theatre, and blimey, what a transformation! The production has been polished to a high sheen, making it far more accessible and relatable to audiences on this side of the pond. And talk about a coup—the original cast has crossed the Atlantic, storming the stage like a theatrical D-Day invasion, poised to rescue us all from the barrage of mindless jukebox musicals cluttering the Great White Way. (Mind you, with a producer lineup longer than the queue for fish and chips on a Friday night, one wonders if there are more backers than there were troops at Normandy!)
David Cumming, Natasha Hodgson, Claire-Marie Hall
For those not in the know, Operation Mincemeat is the brainchild of the British comedy troupe SpitLip: David Cumming, Natasha Hodgson, Zoë Roberts and Felix Hagan have crafted a musical that’s equal parts caricature, cliffhanger, and spy escapade. The narrative spins the true tale of a 1943 British intelligence ruse involving a corpse dressed as a Royal Marine officer, planted with fake invasion plans to bamboozle the Nazis. It’s a story so outlandish, you’d think it was dreamt up after one too many pints at the local pub. The buzz surrounding this production has been so electric that it extended twice before even opening—a testament to its magnetic appeal that’s sure to leave its Broadway competitors in the dust.
Cast of Operation Mincemeat
The ensemble of five actors—Cumming, Hodgson, Roberts, along with Jak Malone and Claire-Marie Hall—juggle an astonishing 82 roles among them. With the mere arch of an eyebrow or a deft placement of a hand, they conjure distinct, memorable characters, showcasing a versatility that’s nothing short of wizardry. And a note to modern-day drag artists: if you think a ton of make-up and bitchy rejoinders constitutes drag personae, check out these sterling thespians, who can switch genders on a dime… I mean, a ha’penny.
Cast of Operation Mincemeat
Musically, the show is a smorgasbord of styles, flitting from rap to big band to heartfelt ballads. It’s a bit like The 39 Steps with its rapid-fire role changes, but unlike that play, which began to feel like a long haul at 90 minutes, Operation Mincemeat keeps the energy up throughout its 2 hours and 35 minutes (including interval). This screwball comedy has bite—yes, even British teeth can clamp down with gusto. The opening numbers come at you thick and fast, and while some lyrics at the top might elude you on first listen, you’ll be better prepared on your second or third visit (and trust me, you’ll want to return).
Jak Malone, Zoë Roberts
If the storytelling device—a ratcheting up of comic mayhem—seems a bit too much, just wait for the first act’s understated ballad “Dear Bill,” delivered with unforced sincerity by Jak Malone, who reprises his Olivier Award-winning role as administrative assistant Hester Leggatt (and more). It’s a brilliant way to momentarily halt the tomfoolery and ground us in the sheer weight of the moment: this is war, and millions of young men are dying to save the free world. Audible sobs rippled through the audience in the stunning stillness, a collective moment of shared humanity that transcended time and place. And, later, a line about how fascism is borne stopped the show cold with wild applause. This is the kind of communal experience our fractured country so desperately needs—where laughter and sorrow coexist, reminding us of the power of theatre to unite, to heal, and to make us feel.
Cast of Operation Mincemeat
Behind the scenes, director Robert Hastie orchestrates the chaos with a firm hand, ensuring the narrative remains clear amidst the whirlwind of costume changes and accents. Jenny Arnold‘s choreography keeps the action snappy, while Ben Stones‘ set and costume designs provide a versatile backdrop that seamlessly transitions from submarines to the MI5 counter-intelligence and security offices. Mark Henderson‘s lighting and Mike Walker‘s sound design—especially in the stunningly reimagined finale—further enhance the atmosphere, making for an immersive experience that transports the audience straight into the heart of this audacious wartime deception. Most wonderful is that this golden show fits the 802-seat Golden Theatre like a well-tailored Savile Row suit.
Cast of Operation Mincemeat
In sum, Operation Mincemeat is a rollicking romp that deftly balances humour and heart, delivering a theatrical experience that’s both uproariously funny and unexpectedly moving. It’s a shining example of British ingenuity and wit combined with American slapstick now delightfully ensconced on Broadway. Do yourself a favour and secure a ticket—this is one Mission you shouldn’t miss for the world.
Cast of Operation Mincemeat
photos by Julieta Cervantes
Operation Mincemeat
Golden Theatre, 252 West 45th Street
on sale through February 15, 2026
for tickets, call 212.239.6200 or visit Operation Mincemeat
