Richard Kind to star in 'The Producers' in the West End

Richard Kind previously played Max Bialystock on Broadway in 2004 and reprised the role in the 2012 Hollywood Bowl production.

Richard Kind will star as Max Bialystock in the West End revival of The Producers for seven weeks only at the Garrick Theatre. He will begin performances on 23 March.

Kind, who previously played Max Bialystock on Broadway in 2004 and reprised the role in the 2012 Hollywood Bowl production, temporarily steps into the part while Andy Nyman departs to open the world premiere production of The Psychic at York Theatre Royal. Nyman will return to the production from 11 May.

Richard Kind said, “Mel Brooks is a genius. Every time I come back to The Producers, I’m reminded what a comic masterpiece it is - the jokes, the infectious energy of the story, the sheer audacity of it all - it still feels as fresh as ever. I’m so thrilled to be returning to the iconic role of Max Bialystock; this is a hat trick for me – they just can’t keep me away! I’ll be sure to keep Andy’s fedora warm for his return, and I’m excited to dive into rehearsals. It’s good to be back.”

Mel Brooks added, “When I learned we needed an actor to briefly fill Andy’s nearly unfillable shoes, only one name came to mind. Richard Kind is a true force of nature—he’s got enough talent and energy to fill two stages! I am beyond thrilled for audiences at The Garrick to experience his Max Bialystock. London, get ready; you’re in for a hilarious ride!

The principal cast also Marc Antolin (Leo Bloom), Trevor Ashley (Roger DeBris), Raj Ghatak (Carmen Ghia), Harry Morrison (Franz Liebkind), and Joanna Woodward (Ulla).

With a book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, and music and lyrics by Mel Brooks, the production is directed by Patrick Marber.

The rest of the creative team includes Choreographer Lorin Latarro, Set Designer Scott Pask, Costume Designer Paul Farnsworth, Lighting Designer Tim Lutkin, Sound Designer Paul Groothuis, Wigs, Hair & Makeup Designer Betty Marini, Musical Supervisor & Dance Arranger Gareth Valentine, Orchestrators Larry Blank and Mark Cumberland, Musical Director Matthew Samer, and Resident Director Matt Gillett.

Book The Producers tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

Photo credit: Richard Kind. (Photo by Jenny Anderson)