To agree with Monty and the whole team, “God, that’s brilliant.”
Walking into the New Theatre for Operation Mincemeat, I knew exactly what I was in for. This was my fifth time seeing the show, and yet it still managed to feel fresh, sharp and just as entertaining as ever. Even with a few subtle changes from its West End run, the heart of the production remains completely intact, continuing to land both its comedy and its emotional beats with ease.
Telling the extraordinary true story of the WWII deception operation that helped turn the tide of the war, Operation Mincemeat is fast-paced, inventive and entirely driven by its cast. With just five performers taking on a huge range of roles, the success of the show rests almost entirely on their shoulders. Thankfully, this cast more than delivers, working as a tightly controlled ensemble that never drops energy or precision.
Holly Sumpton’s Monty was a standout, full of swagger and self-confidence while still maintaining that slightly ridiculous sense of dignity the role demands, very much “like a cow.” Christian Andrews brought real emotional weight to ‘Dear Bill’, landing the moment with sincerity and control, while also matching the show’s comic rhythm elsewhere. Sean Carey was a brilliant lolloping sidekick, bouncing off Monty’s energy with ease and clarity.
Charlotte Hanna-Williams was a perfect plucky heroine, full of warmth and determination. Her performance in ‘Useful’, alongside Andrews, was a particular highlight.
It’s one of my favourite songs in the show, and they did it complete justice. Jamie-Rose Monk, the only cast member new to Operation Mincemeat, slotted in seamlessly. Her take on Haselden was a joy to watch, and she more than held her own alongside an already well-established company.
Having previously seen the show in the more intimate setting of the Fortune Theatre, the move to the much larger New Theatre inevitably shifts the dynamic. Some of that closeness is lost, but the production adapts well to the bigger space without losing its momentum. A few entrance changes and small staging tweaks have been introduced, along with a fun addition to Monty’s moment in the glitzy finale. These are not major alterations, but they offer something new for returning audiences.
What remains unchanged is the show’s ability to connect with its audience. The atmosphere in the theatre was electric, with consistent laughter throughout and a clear sense of shared enjoyment. By the final number, the entire audience was fully on board, culminating in a well-earned standing ovation. Even bringing along someone new to the show, it was clear how quickly it wins people over, with lines already being quoted on the way out.
Operation Mincemeat continues to prove why it has built such a loyal following. Smart, inventive and packed with standout performances, it holds up brilliantly, whether it is your first visit or your fifth. And honestly, to agree with Monty and the whole team, “God, that’s brilliant.”
This show runs at New Theatre Oxford until 4th April. Tickets here.