Based on Ian Fleming’s beloved and timeless children’s story, which became immortalized in the eponymous 1968 film, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, this brand new production is directed by Thom Southerland (Titanic, Parade), choreographed by Karen Bruce (BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, The Bodyguard), with Set and Costume Design by Morgan Large (Newsies, Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat).
In Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, the audience is introduced to the eccentric and somewhat scatty widowed inventor Caractacus Potts (Adam Garcia), who restores a dilapidated old racing car with the help of his children Jemima and Jeremy.
The family soon discover that the car possesses magical powers, and along with the delectable Truly Scrumptious (Ellie Nunn), the family end up on a series of hilarious, fantastical adventures, involving a trip to the dystopian land of Vulgaria, where children are officially banned.
The show adheres faithfully to the MGM classic with all the familiar songs and some extra numbers by The Sherman Brothers that are not featured in the film. Adam Garcia is superb as Caractacus Potts, delivering a fantastic vocal performance combined with impressive physicality. Ellie Nunn is a sublime Truly Scrumptious; her delightfully crystal clear voice and dramatic talent are both particularly well showcased in "Doll On A Music Box". Liam Fox plays the role of Grandpa Potts with aplomb, with particularly memorable renditions of “Posh!” and “The Roses of Success.” The child actors on the night we watched the show – Roshan Thompson (Jeremy) and Gracie Cochrane (Jemina) – both impressed with their strong stage presence and wholehearted performances.
Chitty herself is given a distinct personality and is compellingly brought to life thanks to exceptional stagecraft, culminating in a memorable moment when Chitty takes a bow, making the audience really believe that she can fly.
The Vulgarians provide hilariously standout performances with hints of adult and pantomime humor. Martin Callaghan and Bibi Jay (standing in as the Baroness for Jenny Gaynor) deploy exceptional comedy timing, vocals, and physical humor, effortlessly commanding the audience’s attention. Adam Stafford and Michael Joseph, as the hapless Vulgarian spies Boris and Goran, add rich layers of humor both physically and verbally, reminiscent to that of their film counterparts, Alexander Doré and Bernard Spear.
Charlie Brooks was suitably chilling and menacing in the sinister role of the Childcatcher. The chorus deserves special acclaim for their versatile and variegated performances. Playing multiple characters, acting as stagehands, and delivering superb harmonies and dance sequences, they injected warmth, verve, and joy into every scene.
This dazzling production was thoroughly deserving of the rapturous applause and full standing ovation that it received on press night at The New Wimbledon Theatre: it is fine-tuned to perfection with a star-studded cast, spellbinding song-and-dance routines, and a generous dollop of theatrical magic.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang tours the UK until 10 May 2025
For more information and bookings visit chittyontour.com
Charlie Brooks as the Childcatcher.
Adam Garcia, Ayrton English, Jasmine Nyenya, and Ellie Nunn.
