‘WHEN you’ve got it, flaunt it’ sings Swedish bombshell Ulla (delightfully played by Kate Hunter). That’s certainly true of Durham University, unashamedly flaunting an abundance of talent in its bright restaging of Mel Brooks’ The Producers.

The three leads, Guy Hughes as Max Bialystock, pictured, James Hyde (Leo Bloom) and Hunter, grab hold of their roles right from the off and never let go. Their vocals frequently belie their age and experience, at times their performances leaving the audience simply spellbound.

The production seems most comfortable when it leaps into one of the many showstopping musical numbers, accompanied by the exceptional band. Once they get into their stride, the chorus performs the choreography with a grace and power that makes them look right at home within the walls of the extravagant set.

And what a set. Undeniably impressive, visually striking and seeming to grow as the show progresses, it is handled almost seamlessly by cast and crew alike, and sparkles under the thrilling lighting design that, at moments, would put even a West End show to shame.

Yes, the production team’s determination to remain overly faithful to the Broadway and film originals may occasionally hinder rather than help the actors, but nevertheless, this is surely one of the largest and most ambitious student productions ever staged. One can but marvel at it.

􀁧 Until Saturday. Box office 0191-332-4041 and online at galadurham.co.uk

Jonathan Grande