IF you’re homophobic or you believe ridicule is misplaced when dealing with perpetrators of genocide, prepare to be offended.

Mel Brooks’ 1968 film has become a multi-award-winning musical on Broadway and in London’s West End, and the male members (if you’ll pardon the expression) of Darlington Operatic Society are having a wild time during this ten-day run, dressed up as gay caricatures and sex-mad little old ladies.

With music and lyrics by Brooks, this satirical dark comedy features an unsuccessful Broadway producer whose timid accountant comes up with a money-making scheme; find the worst possible play, the worst possible cast and the worst possible director, get $2m-worth of backing and run off to Rio with the money when the show fails.

Producer Max and his accountant Leo discover Springtime for Hitler and rush to sign up the playwright, goose-stepping pigeon fancier Franz. Next, they recruit the insanely flamboyant director Roger, who feels that the play is too dark for him, but suggests that if they adjust the second act and reverse the outcome of WWII, then the whole show can be transformed into a wonderful, gay extravaganza. Max and Leo are gleefully certain they are set up to fail, but things don’t go according to plan.

The cast is sensational, although with limited space it’s hard to give everyone the credit they deserve; in fact, you tend to forget you’re watching an amateur production. The singing is excellent and there’s a sense of fun that ensures a good time for all.

􀁧 Until Saturday
Box Office: 01325-486555

Sue Heath