The Producers

Babirra’s production of The Producers was a hoot!

This high energy, riotous show exceeded Babirra’s lofty standards. It was camp, it was slapstick, and it was hilarious! The dancing of the ensemble was tight, the lighting subtle, and multiple set and costume changes smooth.

Angelo De Cata was excellent playing the leading role of Max, a shifty producer hoping to make a lot of money by producing a flop. The role was enormous, and he never dropped character. His soliloquy, “Betrayed”, towards the end, was heart-felt, though the role was a little low for his voice.

Zachary Alaimo played the timid accountant, Leo Bloom, who discovered the ruse and joined Max in the scheme. He was a total contrast to Max, had an excellent voice, and the two worked well together.  They had some very funny scenes as Max tried to keep Leo on track.

Nadia Gianinotti sang impressively, while dancing up a storm as Ulla, Leo’s love interest. Her scenes with the timid Leo were very funny. I cannot recall seeing better choreography than the dancing in the duet where they finally come together at the start of the second act.

Ashley McPherson played Franz Liebkind, the writer of the musical Max and Leo hoped would be a flop. This over-the-top Nazi sympathiser was to play the lead role of Hitler, but on opening night “broke a leg”! He used his height to great effect, sang beautifully and danced magnificently. Tim Addicoat and Daniel Baker were also excellent as two camp members of the director’s creative team. There were many other roles, all handled superbly.

The band was good, but unfortunately too loud on occasions. The accents also made it difficult to pick up all the words.

But what a great show!

Graham Ford