There’s a particular joy in watching a show that knows exactly what it is and executes it flawlessly. SpitLip’s much awarded Operation Mincemeat  finally arrives at the opening stop of its world tour at Lowry, Salford, with confidence, precision and not a flicker of complacency. Under Robert Hastie’s direction, it is, quite simply, sublime theatre. Everything is done to the highest standard. There isn’t a fault to be had. 

For the uninitiated, this superb musical tells the astonishing true story of a Second World War intelligence operation so audacious it sounds invented. In 1943, British intelligence officers hatched a plan to deceive the Nazis. Hinged on a corpse and a briefcase, it is a tale of bureaucracy and bravado, of taking a punt on something extraordinary. The genius of the show lies in turning this unlikely episode into a fast-paced, razor-sharp musical comedy that honours the humanity and moral ambiguity at its core. 

This touring cast at this performance- Christian Andrews, Charlotte-Hanna-Williams, Seán Carey, Jamie-Rose Monk and Holly Sumpton- are nothing short of remarkable. The five performers juggle a dizzying number of roles with split-second precision. Hats are donned, accents switched, physicality transformed, yet the storytelling never feels cluttered. Instead, it’s crystal clear and joyfully theatrical. They bring a grounded sincerity that anchors the madness, while threading emotional depth through the satire, giving the story real stakes. Comic timing is surgical- never indulgent, always exact- and quick changes and character pivots look deceptively easy. Collectively, they perform with the tightness of a long-running company and the spark of something freshly discovered. 

SpitLip’s writing remains the show’s secret weapon: fiercely witty, knowingly modern, but never overbearing. Earworms land with punch and purpose. Jokes hit relentlessly, but the quieter moments are poignant, silencing things of beauty. Just when you’re laughing at the sheer absurdity of it all, you’re gently reminded that these were real people making impossible choices in wartime. That tonal balance is extraordinarily difficult to achieve; here, it feels effortless. 

What makes this production so thrilling is its absolute commitment: Hastie’s direction masterfully balances razor-sharp comedy with genuine emotional depth, ensuring the story never loses its heart amid the hilarity. Choreographer Jenny Arnold brings exhilarating precision and inventiveness to every movement, elevating the show’s frenetic energy while keeping it slick and purposeful. The endlessly inventive world crafted by Set & Costume Designer Ben Stones is both playful and ingenious, transforming seamlessly to match the show’s pace and wit. Lighting Designer Mark Henderson adds cinematic flair and atmosphere, heightening every twist and punchline, enhanced by Mike Walker’s glorious Sound Design. Together, this creative team have produced a production that feels bold, intelligent, and utterly unforgettable. 

Prepare to leave exhilarated, giddy, even. Operation Mincemeat doesn’t just entertain; it reminds you what sharp, intelligent musical theatre can do when every element meets the brief. This is the gold standard- mission accomplished.  

Playing at Salford’s Lowry until Saturday 28th February before continuing on its U.K. tour. Further information and booking details can be found here.

Tickets received in exchange for an honest review. #AD

Photography by Matt Crockett.