Broadway’s Newest Musical: Operation Mincemeat
From Operation Mincemeat, at the Golden. Photo: Julieta Cervantes
A Comedic Take on WWII History
Is it more surprising that a self-described “big, dumb musical” about a bizarre piece of World War II history is making its Broadway debut after successfully running in the UK theater scene, or that it is the third musical based on this event, which has inspired various books, TV shows, and films? The British have long shared the wild tale of Operation Mincemeat, but for Americans unfamiliar with the story, here’s a brief introduction.
The Strategy Behind Operation Mincemeat
In 1943, as the British sought a route into Nazi-held Europe through Sicily, they faced a significant challenge from 100,000 German troops stationed there. To divert attention from the true invasion plans, MI5 intelligence officers Ewan Montagu and Charles Cholmondeley devised Operation Mincemeat: they would disguise a corpse as a British pilot, place misleading documents with it, and let it wash ashore in Spain, where German spies were likely to encounter it. This operation resonated throughout history, even influencing Ian Fleming’s work as a naval intelligence officer, who drew inspiration from the plan for his James Bond stories.
The Musical’s Unique Approach
Despite these historical details, the creators of Operation Mincemeat, the British troupe SpitLip, focus on a fun and whimsical narrative. They portray the story through a lively musical production filled with energetic performances and clever staging that includes rolling furniture and quirky props, making it both a comedy and a homage to the spirit of espionage. The show’s humor thrives not only on jokes but also on the charm and sincerity of its performers, keeping audiences engaged throughout.
Moral Questions Interwoven in Humor
The writing team composed of SpitLip members skillfully balances comedic elements with deeper reflections on the moral ambiguities of war and ambition. The show explores themes of ethics and credit in warfare, introducing characters like Montagu, who embodies the cavalier attitude of “the ends justify the means,” and the timid Cholmondeley, who struggles with the emotional weight of their plan. Their contrasting personalities highlight the complexities of their mission, especially when confronted with the loss of life represented by the corpse they plan to use.
Moments of Authentic Emotion
The show’s writing delivers poignant moments, particularly during a powerful scene where characters compose a fictional love letter from the deceased pilot’s fiancé. This scene allows Hester, a secretary, to assert her perspective on loss and love, adding a layer of depth to the overall joyous caper. Importantly, Operation Mincemeat reflects contemporary values by queering the historical narrative, allowing for greater representation on stage.
Conclusion: Embracing the Joy of Storytelling
Ultimately, Operation Mincemeat stands out for its energetic performances and heartfelt themes, encouraging audiences to embrace moments of joy amidst life’s chaos. The production, while reflecting on the past, highlights the importance of storytelling and the human connections that emerge from shared experiences. The show is currently running at the Golden Theatre.
