The much-loved family favourite, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, flies into Blackpool this week for an extended run over the festive period. Adapted from Ian Flemming’s story, with music and lyrics from the Sherman Brothers (Mary Poppins, Bedknobs and Broomsticks), the story follows widowed inventor Caractacus Potts and his two children, Jemima and Jeremy, as Potts restores an old car, discovering it has magical powers. Once described as ‘James Bond for children’, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang boasts many similarities to Flemming’s more famous works, from evil villains to impressive gizmos and gadgets, incompetent spies to a farfetched story line and of course, a wonderful car. Add these elements to a truly toe-tapping score and you realise why this production has stood the test of time.
I was excited for this nostalgic story to be brought to life and, taking my seat in the auditorium, the audience excitement throughout the overture was palpable. However, disappointingly, when the opening scene commenced it was very difficult to hear what the characters were saying. The sound throughout Act 1, especially when characters spoke or sang, was poor which was a real shame as lots of moments were missed. Thankfully, these issues were somewhat resolved for Act 2 and I’m sure will be ironed out for the rest of the show’s run.
The show is packed with wonderful songs, from ensemble numbers ‘Toot Sweets’ and the titular song, ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ to the more poignant number ‘Hushabye Mountain’. Led by musical director, Jessica Viner, the live orchestra, along with fantastic choreography from Karen Bruce, really elevated this production. No expense was spared on costuming and props, which really brought this magical story to life. The showstopper was the car itself, which quite literally flew into the air, seemingly unaided. I have no idea how this was done, but it was truly epic! It’s almost a shame this happens at the end of Act 1 as the show thereafter is rather anti-climactic. That said, Chitty returns in the curtain call, garnering the largest cheer of the night.
Olivier Award nominee Adam Garcia played Caractacus Potts and whilst he shone in the group dance numbers, ‘Me Ol’ Bamboo’ a highlight, I feel he lacked energy and eccentricity for the show’s lead. The character needed more charisma as the kooky inventor and his relationship with Truly Scrumptious wasn’t developed enough for my liking. The pair had little to no chemistry, to the extent that the proposal at the end of the show felt a little odd. Ellie Nunn brought a great, feisty performance to the role of Truly Scrumptious with the modern approach of female empowerment a refreshing choice and beautiful vocals to match. Jeremy and Jemima were played by Charlie Banks and Lara Simon, respectively, bringing great confidence and diction to their roles. On a night where the sound was poor, their every word could be heard. Liam Fox played their grandpa with aplomb.
It was the character roles who really stood out in this production. Adam Stafford and Michael Joseph, as spies Boris and Goran, were hilarious, bouncing off one another as the perfect comedic duo. Their rendition of ‘Act English’, was brilliant. Similarly, Martin Callaghan and Jenny Gayner, as Baron and Baroness, had wonderful comic timing, with ‘Chu-Chi Face’ very entertaining. The real star of the show, however, was The Vivienne as The Childcatcher. They were wonderfully wicked, bringing a fresh take on the role with great presence and star quality. I only wish they could’ve featured more!
Overall, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a ‘fantasmagorical’ family night out. It is a real crowd-pleasing production, proven during the curtain call with a very appreciative opening night Blackpool audience. Despite some early teething issues, it is a show that is certainly worth seeing – for the wonderful car stunt, if nothing else. A fun-filled night is guaranteed for all the family.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is at Blackpool Opera House until Sunday 29th December. Book tickets here: https://www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk/events/chitty-chitty-bang-bang/
Reviewer: Paddy Darnell-Walsh
Reviewed: 10th December 2024
North West End UK Rating:
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