“Operation Mincemeat,” a musical theater production rooted in a real World War II espionage operation, is currently playing at the Emerson Colonial Theatre following successful runs in London and on Broadway. The show dramatizes the British intelligence effort in 1943 to mislead Nazi Germany about the Allies’ invasion plans by planting false documents on a dead body disguised as a British officer. The deception aimed to divert German forces away from Sicily, the actual target of the Allied invasion, by making it appear that Sardinia was the focus.

This production distinguishes itself as a lively comic farce with significant musical elements, departing from earlier versions that have ranged from dramatic to traditional retellings. Featuring an inventive blend of humor, song, and dance, it is performed by a small cast who portray multiple characters, ensuring a rapid pace and spirited energy throughout the performance.

Katie Kleiger leads the ensemble as Ewen Montagu, one of the two MI5 officers behind the ruse. Montagu is portrayed as a flamboyant and assertive figure, with Kleiger’s performance marked by confident physical comedy and a flair that commands attention. Jake Bentley Young plays Charles Cholmondeley, Montagu’s more reserved counterpart, while Erin Ramirez and Luke Anthony Neville bring vitality to their roles as MI5 secretary Jean Leslie and head secretary Hester Leggatt, respectively. Neville’s rendition of “Dear Bill,” a poignant song centered on a fictional love letter carried by the decoy soldier, provides one of the evening’s emotional highlights. Mariah Copeland covers multiple roles, including Colonel Bevan and Ian Fleming, the latter known historically as the creator of James Bond.

The show retains elements of its origins as a small-scale comedic revue, initially performed by members of the British troupe SpitLip at a compact London venue. Creators Natasha Hodgson, David Cumming, Felix Hagan, and Zöe Roberts combined their efforts in writing, composing, and performing the early iterations, which have since evolved into a fully staged West End and Broadway production. Director Robert Hastie leads the current staging, supported by choreography from Jenny Arnold and costume designs by Ben Stones, which range from traditional British uniforms to flamboyant, colorful attire.

While primarily a high-spirited entertainment, the production also touches on themes of duty and the consequences of complacency in the face of tyranny. A notable moment occurs when the character Jean reflects on the importance of resisting fascism, underlining the continuing relevance of the story’s historical context. Although brief, this reflection adds a layer of seriousness beneath the show’s overall comedic and energetic presentation.

“Operation Mincemeat” offers audiences a fresh, witty take on a historical event, balancing its roots in true wartime deception with spirited performance and musical exuberance.