The Orpheus production of the Producers steers its way expertly through the potential minefields of offending audience members of all stripes, while successfully maximizing humour
Distributing offence equally outrageously among assorted groups leaves no one offended and everyone amused.
At least, this appears to be Mel Brooks’ philosophy in The Producers, the multi-award winning 2001 stage musical adapted from his 1968 movie.
The Orpheus Musical Theatre Society production, with director Richard Elichuk at the helm, steers its way expertly through the potential minefields of offending audience members of all stripes. (This production is far more successful in maximizing humour and minimizing potential offence than the 2004 Toronto production, which closed early, leaving a bad taste in the mouths of many of those unfortunate enough to be in the audience.)
Although it is still difficult to see a stage awash in swastikas — a constant reminder of the evil of Naziism — the terrific quality of this production overcomes the negative pull with fast pacing, over-the-top yet carefully controlled performances and costumes taken to a precise level of excess.
Little wonder that the audience was frequently convulsed with laughter through the opening night performance.
Led by the three lead male performers, the entire ensemble is in tune, literally and figuratively. Shaun Toohey, a perfect fit as the brash, crooked producer Max Bialystock, is well paired with Kodi Cannon as Leo Bloom. (It is hard to believe that this slick young performer with star quality written all over him is in his very early twenties.
The always delightful Réjean Dinelle-Mayer has enormous fun queening it as the worst director in town and throwing in some macho stomping off to balance his great drag scene.
Thee are more fine performances from DeeDee Butters as Marilyn Monroe look-alike Ulla and Bryan Jesmer as Carmen Ghia (His singing voice is also noteworthy.)
Under Brian Boggs’ baton, the production is a musical feast, with Jennifer Donnelly’s sets and Cynthia Sandy’s costumes making it a visual treat as well.
Occasional dance, lighting and scene-change glitches on opening night pass almost unnoticed in a spectacle that leaves the audience energized, as well as highly entertained.
This version of The Producers is, without question, one of the most successful Orpheus productions I have seen. It almost makes you want to be a producer.
The Orpheus Musical Theatre Society production of The Producers continues until June 13.
Reviewed by Iris Winston
(Note: The only Broadway musical to garner more Tonys than The Producers to date is Billy Elliot. Just a suggestion for the Orpheus idea bank.)