“I used to have the biggest name on Broadway. Max Bialystock! 13 letters!”
One of the stars of The Producers is Max Bialystock, the iconic con-man-turned-Broadway-producer. We caught up Gareth Earl to talk about what it takes to bring this outrageous, over-the-top character to life—and why Chester audiences are going to love every chaotic second of it!
Q: What drew you to the role of Max Bialystock? What was your first reaction when you got the role?
A: Max is larger than life character, there’s nothing subtle about him, and that’s what makes him irresistible. When I got the role, I was equal parts thrilled and terrified. He’s explosive, manipulative, theatrical and yet oddly endearing. A good guy and bad guy in one. There are not many characters in musical theatre with such range.
Q: Max is a larger-than-life character with a checkered past—how do you bring both the comedy and complexity to life?
A: Beneath all the scheming and bluster, Max is desperate for success, for validation, for one last shot at glory. Playing that vulnerability, even in the middle of the comedy chaos, makes him human. I lean into the absurdity while keeping a pulse on what’s ultimately driving him towards his goal.
Q: What’s your favorite Bialystock line or moment in the show? Is there a particular scene or number that’s especially demanding—or especially fun?
A: “That’s it baby! When you got it, flaunt it” it captures his entire ethos! Personally, I love the “Betrayed” number. It’s over 5 mins long, super fast, super wordy reenacting the whole story at break neck speed. The hardest song I have ever come across in musical theatre. Demanding? Definitely. But it’s also a full-throttle joyride from start to finish.
Q: How do you handle the physical comedy and high energy required for Max? Any backstage rituals or warm-ups that help you get into ‘Bialystock mode’?
A: Hydration via Redbull, wait 20 mins for it to kick in, then channel every manic impulse I’ve ever had. I will mostly like pace like a caged tiger before curtain. And once that first line hits, it’s full steam ahead. Max doesn’t ease into scenes, he cannonballs into them.
Q: Have you ever had to “fake it till you make it” like Max does?
A: Absolutely! Auditioning for this show is at the very top of the list I’d say. Sometimes you have to sell the illusion of competence and hope your confidence gets you through. Max just takes that philosophy and runs with it… off a cliff. .
Q: If Max had a motto that summed up his philosophy on life, what do you think it would be?
A: “Desperate times call for flamboyant measures.”
Q: Any surprising ways you’ve connected with Max personally?
A: His love for the theatre runs deep, even if it’s wildly misguided. I get that. The desperation to create something big, to chase applause, to be remembered. I just try to do it with fewer fraudulent old lady investors.
Q: Without giving too much away… what’s one moment that always gets a big laugh?
A: Probably wear Max and Leo are fighting and they are rolling around on the floor. It’s utter mayhem, pure slapstick comedy and I know the audience is going to love it.
Q: What makes this production of The Producers special or unique? What can audiences expect from this version of The Producers?
A: Our director Neil is one of the most naturally funny people I have ever met. He is a huge fan of Mel Brooks and so this show has been crafted with huge heart and sharp wit. Every member of the cast is dialled in, every gag has been rehearsed again and again, tuned for precision. It’s classic Mel Brooks chaos, but with fresh energy and genuine warmth. Audiences will be laughing, cringing, and singing all the way home.
Q: Why do you think audiences still love Max and The Producers decades after it first premiered?
A: Because everyone loves a lovable rogue and Max is the rogue’s rogue. The show skewers theatre, fame, greed, and desperation, but it does it with so much charm you can’t help but root for these misfits. It’s timeless because we’re all a little bit Max at heart.
Catch Gareth Earl as Max Bialystock in Zodiac Theatre Group’s uproarious production of The Producers.
📅 Wednesday 29th October – Saturday 1st November 2025
📍 The Hammond, Mannings Lane, Chester, CH2 4ES
**Bring a group – 11th ticket free, automatic discount at checkout**
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