Review By Melanie Miller, Front Row Reviewers
My second trip to the Ziegfeld Theater to see The Producers in Ogden transported me to the Broadway of old. The nostalgic set design of Erica Choffel transports the audience to the days of spectacular musicals and grand affairs. The clever use of Jake Larabee’s projections keep the audience engrossed in the moment.
The show follows the tale of Max Bialystock, masterfully portrayed by Cameron Kapetanov, a washed up producer missing his glory days. He encounters Leo Bloom, a young naïve accountant played by the exceptional Andy Coplin, who unwittingly gives Max the idea of producing a flop to take the money and run. The chemistry between these two is off the charts. They play off of one another in a fun, charismatic back and forth – the world weary has-been and the young, starry-eyed dreamer. They decide to search out the worst play they can find – and they find a doozy in Springtime for Hitler written by the Nazi-obsessed Franz Liebkind aka Ryan Gorsline, who actually makes the Third Reich hysterical. Then it’s on to sign the worst director in town, Roger DeBris, played by Paul Kipping, who along with his partner Carmen Ghia (Troy Martell) and his team who are determined to “ Make it Gay”.
These talented actors, along with the rest of the cast, help us lose ourselves in the hysterical insanity that is this Mel Brooks classic for the evening. The brilliant direction of Jake Larrabee keeps this show moving and entertaining from start to finish. Keely Parry’s choreography and Stephanie Colyar’s beautiful costumes transport us back to the era of Danny Kaye and Bing Crosby. The Music Direction by Aurora Nelson is exceptional. The harmony and talent was a delight to hear, particularly the amazing talent of Eleanor Parks in the role of blonde Swedish bombshell and Leo’s love interest, Ulla.
The 250 seat theater itself is homey and intimate, with great views and wonderful sound. If you are itching for a fun evening of music and frivolity, The Producers is the clear choice.
The Ziegfeld Theater presents: The Producers by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan.
Ziegfeld Theater, 3934 Washington Blvd., Ogden , UT 84403
January 31 – February 15, 2025 7:30 PM
Contact: 855-944-2787
Ziegfeld Arts Facebook Page
Tickets $24.95-26.95
The Producers Reel
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