The Producers

Primadonna Productions’ The Producers was a clean, slick, and well-performed production that deserved a longer run. Playing to big audiences at the 800 seat Mandurah Performing Arts Centre, this was a production with strong production values that felt worthy of this beautiful venue.

Looking fabulous with excellent costumes from Carole Dhu and cast, simple but effective sets - predominantly using drops and projections and strong lighting choices, served the show well.

The title roles were played with flair by Trick Cole (Max Bialystock) and Bailey Bridgman-Peters (Leo Bloom). Showing a great camaraderie, these were probably the best roles to date for both actors, with Trick showing great comic timing and Bailey charting a wonderful character journey from shy and uncertain accountant to confident and strong producer.

Abby Kotara played what I believe is her first leading role, looking striking and working particularly well aa romantic partner to Bailey.

Camping it up as director Roger Debris, was Peter Bonner in a strong performance, occasionally (appropriately) upstaged by Steven Jones fabulously flamboyant as Debris’ assistant Carmen Ghia - somewhat of an audience favourite. Another crowd-pleasing performance was Nic Gaynor’s gloriously over-the top portrayal of pigeon fancying Nazi, Franz Liebkind.

Strong performances throughout, with several in the 37 strong cast playing multiple cameos. The ensemble was focused and hardworking with the choruses of showgirls and little-old-ladies being particularly strong,

Accompanied by a live orchestra, led by Musical Director Bruce Angus, the strong band supports good quality vocals.

Completely politically incorrect but wonderful fun, The Producers was a treat for audiences.

Kimberley Shaw