The Great British Bake Off Musical - LAOS Review

Review by Mark
Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review.

Everyone’s favourite baking show has traded the iconic white tent for the stage, and Leicester Amateur Operatic Society (LAOS) serves up a joyous, hilarious, and utterly delicious production at The Little Theatre. The Great British Bake Off Musical delivers a comedic and heartwarming celebration of baking, self-discovery, and community, all served with a generous helping of British charm and witty musical flair.

Photo by Lisa Jayne Photography.

From the moment the overture kicks off, the production captures the gentle, feel-good essence that makes the TV series a national treasure. As the tale unfolds, we follow an eclectic group of hopeful contestants as they whisk, knead, and bake their way toward glory. Under the watchful (and hilarious) eyes of judges and hosts inspired by the household names we know and love, the stage comes alive with high stakes, soggy bottoms, and soaring harmonies.

At the helm are the TV hosts, Jim (Martin Green) and Kim (Charlotte Brown); their lively energy is endlessly appealing throughout the show. Steve Elliott as Phil Hollinghurst and Karen Gordon as Pam Lee are the judges; both excel supremely, with the contestants longing for a Hollinghurst handshake. Elliott and Gordon relish their joyous duet, 'I'd Never Be Me Without You'. Gordon also shines in the Act Two opening number 'Keep On Keeping On'.  

The emotional core comes through the Bake Off contestants we get to know throughout the story. Tasha Plummer is tremendous as Gemma; her warmth is evident as the character finds her confidence, belting out big solos like 'Somewhere In The Dough' and 'Rise' with superb vocals. Russell Carrington is outstanding as Ben—he nails the charming father role, grounding every emotion as a sweet romance with Gemma blossoms. The connection between Carrington and Ben's daughter, played by the brilliant Amelie Vickers at the performance I attended, is endearing and moving.

Karen Hamilton gives a scene-stealing turn as Babs; she is a complete hoot, delivering big laughs and the showstopping number 'Babs' Lament'. Kyla Burton gives a great performance as Izzy, grounding her determination to succeed alongside some flawed choices; she is a standout talent who is sure to go on to great things in the industry. Arlen Panesar as Hassan is simply lovely; you root for him from the start. A scene between Panesar and Sarah Barton Wells as Francesca discussing their backgrounds offers a beautifully grounded moment between the characters. Tom Mottram is fantastic as Russell, full of charm and expertly delivering lines for maximum audience impact. Meanwhile, Dan Brewer is hilarious throughout as Dezza, the first contestant to be eliminated who stubbornly refuses to leave.

Karen Gordon as Pam Lee. Photo by Lisa Jayne Photography.

An impressive ensemble serves as the TV production crew, providing key support to scenes and set pieces while seamlessly moving scenery and props. They excel with Hollie Carrington's polished, energetic choreography. The visual staging is fantastic, with a set provided by ESNA and a multitude of baking stations and props. It's instantly recognisable, and it all looks great paired with David Hateley's effective lighting. 

Musically, the company as a whole boasts sublime vocals; it is an absolute pleasure to hear this cast perform in harmony alongside the vibrant 6-piece live band. While there were a few minor sound balance dips during the performance, these opening-night teething troubles were easily forgiven against the strength of the music.

While a few minor pacing lulls in the second act slightly cool the oven, the sheer enthusiasm and polished talent of the LAOS company make this show a first-rate accomplishment. Whisking together top-tier local talent, rich harmonies, and endless laugh-out-loud moments, this delightful show wraps you in its warmth, leaving you wishing you didn't have to leave the tent.

⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Great British Bake Off Musical runs at The Little Theatre in Leicester until Saturday 17th October 2026. For tickets and more information, visit https://thelittletheatre.co.uk/whats-on/the-great-british-bake-off-musical/

Tasha Plummer as Gemma. Photo by Lisa Jayne Photography.