Operation Mincemeat - Woking Theatre

A musical about a top secret MI-5 operation during World War 2? God, that’s brilliant!

Complete with a cast of just five, Operation Mincemeat launches headfirst into the bonkers true tale of a ragtag team of MI-5 misfits who conspire to outwit the Nazis with nothing more than a dead body, a fake identity, and a mountain of audacity. The result? A gloriously improbable mission that somehow works - equal parts espionage, eccentricity, and unfiltered British wit.

Like its characters, this show has an unlikely yet inspiring journey. From humble beginnings at the New Diorama, Southwark Playhouse, and Riverside Studios, it has built a devoted fanbase - one that has carried it all the way to Broadway and near countless West End extensions. Tonight's performance has made all of this merit quite clear to this reviewer. Having seen the show in the West End last year, I was still surprised by all this production has to offer.

Photography by Matt Crockett

The entire absurdity of the show lies in the small cast of five’s ability to multi-role like never before, and seldom relent in their energetic performances! Every cast member has taken on their own massive challenge, each in their own way. Holly Sumpton's performance as Ewen Montagu & Others was just sublime. Montague is a nonchalant and over-confident narcissist, which makes for insane comedic potential - and Sumpton does not disappoint. Montague teams up with an unlikely hero and friend - Charles Cholmondeley (Seán Carey), a socially awkward, and so, underestimated genius. An unlikely pair of polar opposite personalities - and yet, funny and so charming. 

My personal favourite, however, is and always will be the character of Hester Leggatt. This is a character originated by Jak Malone, who went on to win a Tony for his performance, and it is admittedly a tough act to follow. This tour welcomes back Christian Andrews, who returns to MI-5 after a time at the Fortune Theatre a while back. Andrews is stunning in this role, and makes the role entirely his own. His performance of Dear Bill painted such a vivid picture that this reviewer was left in full puddles of tears. From the physicalisations of the character to the control of vocal changes, this is a role which seems easy but requires incredible audacity to tackle - something Andrews does not seem to lack.

Photography by Matt Crockett

The soundtrack by David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson, and Zoë Roberts is a beautiful symphony which perfectly mirrors each lead character's personality. Representing Cholmondeley's loneliness through Dead in the Water, Hester's hidden sensitivity in the tear-jerking Dear Bill, and the group's camaraderie in Sail On, Boys, this soundtrack is a true crowd-pleaser.

The set design for Operation Mincemeat is a masterclass in creative economic and theatrical flair. Designed by Ben Stones, the set embraces its fringe-theatre origins with a minimalist aesthetic that proves both versatile and imaginative. A modest collection of desks, filing cabinets, chairs, and mobile set pieces is cleverly reconfigured throughout the show to evoke a range of wartime locations: from MI-5 offices to submarines and Spanish beaches.

This laid-back approach complements the race-speed pace of the production and its quickfire character switches, allowing the ensemble to inhabit countless roles without missing a beat. The visual simplicity also leaves room for the audience’s imagination to fill in the gaps, which feels entirely in keeping with the production’s modest tone.

Lighting by Mark Henderson also plays a crucial role in distinguishing mood and setting, while Mike Walker’s sound design injects energy and period atmosphere despite the occasional issues due to the fact that the show opened in Woking tonight. The result is a set that never overshadows the performances but instead amplifies the show's inventive spirit and sharply drawn comedy.

A small note on touring shows. I have mentioned this in previous venues, but it worth noting that typically, the first night in a new venue may be slightly flawed in terms of sound quality. The opening number, and a few scattered around the show sounded very much like they were sung a megaphone, which does affect how clearly the words come across as an audience member.

In a theatre world often reliant on spectacle, Operation Mincemeat proves that smart, resourceful design can be just as thrilling. Joyous, audacious and vivacious - this is a show that amply deserves its many accolades.

Production Value: 85%

Value For Money: 85%

Personal Enjoyment: 80%

Overall Score: 83% - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5*)

(AD | gifted in exchange for an honest review)

Show Information

Venue: New Victoria Theatre, Woking

Playing Until: 20 June 2026 - before moving on to another venue

Run Time: Approximately 2h20 - with an interval of 20 minutes

Tickets can be purchased from this link.