Operation Mincemeat's Broadway transfer is hit by president's tarrifs

The Broadway transfer of Operation Mincemeat has been hit by Donald Trump’s trade war.

Newly imposed tariffs held up the delivery of the specialty lightbulbs that should be illuminating the comedy musical’s 1940s-style marquee.

It meant the show started its performance at New York’s  John Golden Theatre on Saturday with the sign unlit – an almost unheard-of occurrence in glittering Times Square. 

The bulbs are imported from China, and have been held up at customs by red tape caused by the recently enacted tariffs.

Originating in London’s tiny New Diorama Theatre, the show – about a daring real-life wartime propaganda mission –  progressed through the capital’s Southwark Playhouse and Riverside Studio before premiering in the West End in May 2023, at the Fortune Theatre, where it still runs. 

Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical’s official Broadway opening night is set for Thursday, March 20

Here’s some footage of this weekend’s first premier, including a band of loyal fans – dubbed ‘Mincefluencers’ – sang Sail On, Boys, the musical’s signature theme. Around 300 had travelled to New York for the occasion. 

Published: 17 Feb 2025