Some war stories are heroic. Some are unbelievable. And then there’s Operation Mincemeat, a show that somehow manages to be both while making you laugh almost nonstop along the way.

Currently playing at Woking Theatre, this fast-paced musical tells the remarkable true story of Glyndwr Michael, a Welsh drifter who died in London in 1943 at just 34 years old. Unlike most wartime heroes, Michael never chose to risk his life for his country. Yet after his death, he became a crucial part of one of the most daring deception operations of World War Two.

British intelligence officers Charles Cholmondeley and Ewen Montagu transformed Michael into the fictional Acting Major William Martin, complete with fake documents, personal letters and a carefully crafted backstory. When the body was discovered off the coast of Spain, German intelligence swallowed the bait, believing the Allies planned to invade Greece instead of Sicily. The deception succeeded spectacularly, helping clear the way for the Allied invasion of Sicily and ultimately saving countless lives.

If that sounds extraordinary, the stage production is every bit as impressive.

One of the joys of Operation Mincemeat is watching its small but incredibly talented cast juggle a dizzying number of roles. Characters appear and disappear in seconds, with actors switching accents, gender, costumes and personalities almost before you’ve realised what’s happened. Scene changes happen at lightning speed; one moment you’re in a lively nightclub, the next you’re aboard a submarine.

Christian Andrews is a standout as Hester Leggatt, delivering a moving rendition of Dear Bill that reveals unexpected vulnerability and leaving not a dry eye in the house. Holly Sumpton is perfectly cast as the gloriously self-important Ewen Montagu, throwing herself into the show’s physical comedy with infectious confidence.

Sean Carey’s Charles Cholmondeley is the underdog everyone roots for, bringing warmth and humour to the role, while Charlotte Hannah-Williams gives Jean Leslie both strength and charm, backed up by stunning vocals. Jamie-Rose Monk is an absolute comic powerhouse as Johnny Bevan, consistently earning some of the night’s biggest laughs.

Behind the scenes, director Robert Hastie keeps everything running with military precision, ensuring every joke lands. Jenny Arnold’s choreography deserves equal praise, maintaining relentless energy as the cast dance, sing and transform between roles at breakneck speed.

Ben Stones’ inventive set design supports the show’s frantic pace while retaining the quirky Fringe-theatre spirit that helped launch Operation Mincemeat to success.

The score is equally ambitious, leaping from heartfelt ballads to rousing ensemble numbers and even the occasional rap. At times, the rapid-fire lyrics were difficult to catch, I almost wanted sub titles!

It’s easy to see why Operation Mincemeat has become one of the most beloved musicals of recent years. Clever, original and gloriously funny, it transforms an unlikely chapter of wartime history into an unforgettable night at the theatre.

Whether you’re already a fan or completely new to the mission, this production proves that sometimes the most outrageous plans really do save the day.

Reviewed by Nina Gardner

Five Stars.

Showing at Woking Theatre 15 – 20 June 2026

For further details and tickets see link below

https://www.wokingtheatre.co.uk/shows/woking-theatre/operation-mincemeat

Cast

Christian Andrews      Hester Leggatt and others

Sean Casey                     Charles Cholmondeley and others

Jamie-Rose Monk       Jonny Bevin and others

Charlotte Hannah Williams Jean Leslie and others

Holly Sumpton              Ewen Montagu and Others

Katy Ellis                           Ewen Montagu and others

Jordan Pearson             Hester Leggatt and others

Georgina Hagen           Jonny Bevin and others

Morgan Phillips             Charles Cholmondeley and others

CREATIVE TEAM

Written and composed by SpitLip – David Cumming, Felix Hagan, Natasha Hodgson and Zoë Roberts.

Robert Hastie                Direcor
Jenny Arnold                   Choreographer

Paul Isaiah Isles           Associate Choreographer
Ben Stones                      Set and Costume Designer
Mark Henderson          Lighting Designer
Mike Walker                    Sound Designer
Steve Sidwell                 Orchestrator and Vocal Arranger
Joe Bunker                       Musical Supervisor
Sam Sommerfield       Musical Director
Amy Milburn                   Associate Director
Casting                              Pearson Casting