Review: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Lyceum Theatre

“…a magical, jam-packed, ‘Truly Scrumptious’ slice of theatre…”

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang by Jeremy Sams, Lyceum Theatre

By Sophie Dodworth

Pretty Chitty Bang Bang has arrived in the land of steel, for us to take a look at her wonderful transformation, from scrap heap fodder to the ‘fine, four-fendered friend’ that she is. An absolute British classic 1960s movie that Chitty is, transformed for stage in 2002, keeping all generations entertained and singing along to the smashing musical numbers that the film cemented into many of our minds.

It’s a jam-packed storyline with so many whimsically wonderful characters in tow. The main theme is following the makeover of an old, soon-to-be-magical, car by Caractacus Potts (Adam Garcia), the father of Jeremy and Jemima. Along the journey of the renovations there are twists and turns, including Potts developing his whistling ‘toot sweets’ which also gives him an opportunity of romance, with the ever beautiful Truly Scrumptious played by Ellie Nunn. The tale takes a thrilling turn when the children are kidnapped…

The cast is rather unreal in many aspects. It is a wonder how the company achieved finding such a solid team with no weak links. Stealing the show with her extroverted and perfectly polished take on the Baroness is Jenny Gayner, what a talent she is. Delivering the most solid comedic timing, in a way which will be tricky to match for successors, surely. The comedy duo Goran and Boris (Michael Joseph and Adam Stafford) are firm favourites with the whole audience. They are tons-of-fun, gaining barrels-of-laughs every time they are on. The scene with the pair and the telephone call is a memorable one, so hilarious. A welcome treat to get to see Adam Garcia on stage and watch his intricate footwork during some of the musical numbers – if you are a fan of dance, then he may be one of your idols. The Childcatcher for this performance was played by Callum Train and manifested some loud ‘boos’ and ‘hisses’ from the audience. He was a fine fit to this role, an understudy, but as it usually goes, an extremely welcomed one.

The famous musical numbers are really such a treat. With the classics not changed from the film; You Two is just beautiful with great chemistry between the children and Garcia. He really does have a strong voice too to match his dance skills. Me Ol’ Bamboo has every one knee-tapping and what a strong display of unison on stage with the ensemble, they work so hard during this number. The Roses of Success was outstanding, mainly cast with the ensemble and Granpa Potts (played by Liam Fox), they all shone, especially eye-catching with her professionalism and solid vocal was Kirsty Ingram. Chu-Chi Face has to be one of the best musical numbers of the show due to the comedic relationship between The Baron and The Baroness.

The set is just ‘phantasmagorical’, with the main stage framed in what looks like metal car engine parts in their finest form. The effects start right at the beginning and don’t let up, they keep coming…lots of explosions, smoke and flying cars. You certainly feel like you are getting your money’s worth.

If you can make it, this is more than worth every penny. It’s a magical, jam-packed, ‘Truly Scrumptious’ slice of theatre. Don’t miss out!

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang plays at Lyceum Theatre until Saturday 01 March. Tickets are available here.

Sophie Dodworth is an experienced theatre reviewer. Prior to joining NAR she has written reviews for multiple review sites including The Reviews Hub, and sees reviewing as a lovely break from being a busy mum. Sophie has herself tread the boards, working full time as a professional singer many years ago and more recently in amateur productions.