The Baker's Wife | Short Review

Based on Marcel Pagnol's 1938 film about a French village upended by a new baker and his wife, Gordon Greenberg's production of The Baker's Wife is très charmante. The lives of feuding neighbours, an unhappy woman and a battling couple are all transformed when Aimable and Geneviève cast their spell.

This whimsical musical interacts with audience members who feel they are very much part of the action – sometimes literally, as they are co-opted to dance and even sit at cafe tables on the set. Just like magic ­– ooh la la! – a talented multi-tasking cast dances, sings and jokes their way into your hearts.

★★★★

PRODUCTION CREDITS

The Baker's Wife by Stephen Schwartz (music and lyrics), Joseph Stein (book)

Menier Chocolate Factory, London, 17 July 2024

Starring  Lucie Jones, Clive Rowe, Joaquin Pedro Valdes, Josefina Gabrielle, Finty Williams, David Seadon-Young, Matthew Seadon-Young, Jack Gardner et al

Directed by Gordon Greenberg

The Baker's Wife is playing at the Menier Chocolate Factory until 14 September – for more information and tickets visit menierchocolatefactory.com

You can read our full review in the October issue of Musicals magazine out on 27 September – consider subscribing today!