Operation Mincemeat at Leeds Grand is a delight from start to finish. Directed by Robert Hastie, it is witty, inventive, silly and surprisingly moving.

This true story was first told in paper form by Ben Macintyre and was followed in 2021 by a highly successful film by Michelle Ashford. The stage production, the genius of David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson and Zoë Roberts, takes an extraordinary true story from the Second World War and transforms it into a hugely entertaining musical packed with memorable characters, brilliant performances and infectious energy. The show’s greatest strength is its humour.

Christian Andrews as Hester Leggatt Photo: Matt Crockett

Charlotte Hanna-Williams as Jean Leslie Photo: Matt Crockett

The script is consistently sharp, includes some clever play on words and boasts a cast who throw themselves wholeheartedly into the comedy. But behind the laughs is a moving story about an unlikely group of people attempting something extraordinary, and the play never loses sight of its serious side. The musical numbers are wonderful. They range from funny to poignant, with catchy melodies and energetic choreography keeping the pace flying along.

The performers are superb, switching effortlessly between comedy and more heartfelt moments, and the chemistry between the cast is infectious. The actors were all excellent, but particular mention goes to Holly Sumpton, who plays Ewen Montagu to perfection – a real talent. The set is equally imaginative. It uses clever staging to really bring the story to life. This is a production that trusts its audience to enjoy a joke while still delivering plenty of emotion.

Holly Sumpton as Ewen Montagu Photo: Matt Crockett

Jamie-Rose Monk as Johnny Bevan Photo: Matt Crockett

Even having read the book and seen the film, my theatre partner and I were still on the edge of our seats, stressing that the operation would fail!

What makes Operation Mincemeat so special is the sheer joy radiating from the stage. It is one of those shows where the enthusiasm of the performers becomes contagious and you leave the theatre feeling happier than when you arrived. The entire audience leapt to their feet as it finished.

Don’t miss this one! It is a show that deserves every bit of its success.



Operation Mincemeat is on at Leeds Grand until 12th September with a matinee at 2.30pm on Saturday. More information here.