It’s always interesting what shows take hold in regional theatre and which one’s are a rarity to see done. You’d think it would fall in line with the big hits of Broadway but not always. One example is despite winning 12 Tony Awards and having a long run on Broadway I have never had a chance to see The Producers. Based on the 1967 film this irreverent comedic smash is finally being put on by the folks at The Grand Theatre and I thankfully loved every second of it!

If you are unfamiliar with the story this musical focuses on 2 Broadway producers- the cynical Max Bialystock (BJ Whimpey) and the neurotic Leo Bloom (Luke Gonzalez.) They develop a scheme that they can launder money by intentionally producing the worst musical ever concocted. Obviously for such an insane premise to work the leads must be commanding and funny. Fortunately Whimpey and Gonzalez are. Their chemistry works, and they are both up for all the singing and dancing the roles require.

The supporting cast is also great with Andrew Reeser and Doug Williams stealing the show as Carmen Ghia and Roger De Bris respectively. De Bris is the flamboyant gay director Leo and Max hire, and Carmen is his assistant. I particularly loved a joke where Carmen keeps saying the S on words to ridiculous lengths. “Keep it Gay” and “You Never Say ‘Good Luck’ on Opening Night” are their funniest songs. McKenna Walwyn is also very funny as Ulla (with a very good Swedish accent.)

While I always admire the productions at The Grand sometimes their ambition exceeds their grasp but not the case here. Director Jamie Rocha Allen has seemingly thought of every detail with stunning sparkly backgrounds and bold lighting to accompany the song and dance routines. Every detail is considered like making the puppets for the pigeons and the wild costumes (designer Shannon McCullock) like when dancers have giant pretzels on their heads.

When I did my out of theatre reaction I said I would see The Producers again and I stand by that. It is so funny with a very talented cast. One can’t go wrong making this show an important part of your summer plans. The program says PG-13 which seems a little low. I’d say it is firmly in the R rated camp with just the language alone. My friend who attended with me was definitely more taken aback by the mature content than I was but it is something to keep in mind if you get a ticket for The Grand. Other than that The Producers is very funny with a great cast and definitely worth your investment of time and money. I’d see it again if I could! The Producers is playing until June 13th and tickets can be purchased here.

The Producers features music and lyrics by Mel Brooks with a book by Brooks and Thomas Meehan. It first premiered on Broadway in 2001 to great acclaim.

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