Review | Operation Mincemeat | The Lowry | 24 February 2026
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
There is something poetic about Operation Mincemeat launching its world tour at The Lowry. From the very first creative conversation to the first place its music was performed at a ‘scratch night’ for new writing, it was only fitting to begin at the venue. Since then, it has become an absolute phenomenon with simultaneous runs in the West End and on Broadway, gaining a collection of Olivier Awards and Tony Awards along the way.
Based on a real operation during the Second World War, Operation Mincemeat tells the story of how British intelligence used an extravagant act of deception to mislead the Nazis, helping towards winning the war. Already immortalised on film, it doesn’t seem an obvious choice for a stage musical. Without ever trivialising things, Operation Mincemeat succeeds by having its own unique identity, equal parts hilarity and heart.
The five-strong cast each multi-role a whole host of characters, with no clear lead, which works to the show's advantage. The jumping between roles never feels confusing to the audience, with accent and subtle costume changes being seamless. What is unique, however, is how each performer plays both male and female characters, in a gender-blind and inclusive way that never feels like a gimmick, only adding to the charm of the show.
Alongside the hilarious script, the clever score is where Mincemeat really shines. Blending genres throughout, obvious comparisons exist to other successful modern musicals. Operation Mincemeat, however, never feels like it is ever trying to be anything other than itself, so no such comparisons will be found here. There are hilarious ensemble numbers such as ‘God That’s Brilliant’ where the competing egos pitch their ideas alongside pop-tastic crowd pleasers like ‘All the Ladies.’ It is, however, one of the more understated songs that steals the show completely. ‘Dear Bill’ is a true masterclass in songwriting and performance, as Hester (Christian Andrews) crafts a beautiful faux love letter to a soldier at war. The humanity in that moment, as every word lands, really elevates the show to the next level.
Part of what made the show beloved in London was its intimacy when telling this story. Transferring to significantly larger venues on tour risked losing this charm, with The Lowry having around four times the capacity of London’s Fortune Theatre. They have, however, achieved the impossible and retained that feeling of intimacy whilst also embracing scale where it makes sense. Lighting is bolder and an even glitzier finale awaits at the end, giving something new for existing fans of the show.
Operation Mincemeat sets the standard for new musicals to aspire to and is refreshingly British in doing so. Bursting with heart, humour, and incredible music, it is one of the best new musicals this decade and is not one to be missed. It plays at The Lowry until Saturday 28 February 2026, with limited tickets remaining.
Note: My ticket was gifted in exchange for a review. This review is based on my honest opinion alone and is without influence.
