There is no denying Mel Brooks is a comedy genius. His blend of witty dialog, irreverent humor and interesting plot lines make his shows some of my favorites. Topping that list is “The Producers,” book by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, music and lyrics by Brooks, originally directed and choreographed by Susan Stroman, and now on stage at Candelight Theatre in Delaware.
“The Producers” is now onstage through Sunday, Feb. 22, 2026, at The Candlelight Theatre
“The Producers” focuses on washed up Broadway Producer Max Bialystock and his neurotic accountant Leo Bloom. Once the King of Broadway, now everything Max touches is a flop, and he has taken to courting little old ladies to keep his shows funded. However, when Leo comes to check the books on Max’s latest failure things begin to look up. After an offhand comment suggesting Max could make more money with a flop, the two embark on a journey to find the worst play imaginable, directed by the lousiest director available and starring the most horrible actors they can cast. Things take a hilarious turn when the show becomes a hit.
Director Jody Anderson assembled a top-notch cast. Returning to their 2013 roles, Delco natives David Wills and Anthony Connell step back into Max and Leo effortlessly. I saw the 2013 show. It was impressive. But Wills and Connell have gotten better with time, and I enjoyed this performance even more. They have a great bond and play off one another well. Wills has a dry delivery that is perfect for Max and Connell had many nervous ticks and mannerisms that worked well for Leo. And they are funny. Very, very funny.
The leads are accompanied by a multi-talented cast. Mary McAvoy is terrific as Ulla. She has a beautiful voice and her scenes with Connell are entertaining. Bob Gatchel is fabulous as Roger De Bris and Caleb Tracy is entertaining as Carmen Ghia. Andrew Bozzelli is wonderful as Franz Liebkind. Candlelight’s ensemble is brilliant. Several actors take on more than one role perfectly. The ensemble includes Michelle Lewin Affleck, Micaela Hickey, Benjamin Helbert, Paige Hollenbeck, Nicole Lewin Mariash, Jeremy Mitchell, Nate Miles-McLean, Samantha Ricchiuti, Cory Steiger, Nina Straface, Shawn Weaver, and Shaun Yates.
The set by Jeff Reim, lighting by Matthew Kator, costumes by Timothy Lamont Cannon and wigs, hair and makeup by Clayton Stacey are all well done. The dresses were glamorous, the old lady costumes were outstanding, and the set was detailed and interesting. The music, excellently directed by Betsy Conner, was terrific. Songs include “The King of Broadway,” “I Wanna Be A Producer,” “Keep It Gay,” “When You Got It, Flaunt It,” and “That Face.” The choreography, by Anderson, assisted by tap choreographer Scott Jacobs, was flawless and I especially enjoyed it in “Along Came Bialy” and “Springtime for Hitler.”
Candlelight moved from a buffet to table side service after Covid. However, seconds are available upon request, and the food is still delicious. “The Producers” menu includes a shrimp cocktail appetizer, salad, beef burgundy, salmon in a white wine sauce, ricotta ravioli, and green beans. Dessert is included. There is a cash bar along with specialty drinks.
If you go:
“The Producers” runs at The Candlelight Theatre, 2208 Millers Road, Wilmington, Del., through Feb. 22. Remaining shows are Feb. 11 (doors open at 11 a.m. Food is served until 12:30, show is 1 p.m.) Feb. 13, 14, 19, 20, and 21 (doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is 6-7:30 followed by the show at 8 p.m.). Online sales are sold out for the Feb. 14 and 21 performances, however tickets may be available by calling the box office at 302-475-2313. For tickets or information, visit candlelighttheatredelaware.org or call the box office. Candlelight continues its season with another Mel Brooks classic, “Young Frankenstein”, which opens March 14.