THE TOURING production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang has soared into Birmingham. Based on the beloved 1968 film, with a score by the Sherman Brothers, the stage adaptation by Jeremy Sams is filled with all the charm, energy, and whimsy that you’d expect from this family favourite.

 Ore Oduba joins this flawless cast as eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts and devoted father to Jemima Potts (Gracie Cochrane) and Jeremy Potts (Roshan Thomson) who restores an old car that has magical abilities.

This car is wanted by the evil Baron (Martin Callaghan) and Baroness (Jenny Gayner) which as a result Grandpa Potts (Liam Fox) is taken hostage for. Throughout the plot we meet comedy duo Boris and Gorgan, effortlessly portrayed by Adam Stafford and Michael Joseph who have a Morcombe and Wise flair to their performance.

Picture by Paul Coltas. s

The Potts family along with the ‘truly delightful’ Truly Scrumptious (Ellie Nunn) embark on rescue adventure to VulgIria. With the help of the kind hearted Toymaker (John Macaulay) they save the children from the villainess Childcatcher (Charlie Brooks) and leave triumphant on the iconic flying car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Picture by Phil Tragen. s

This show is a feast for the senses from the onset – from the dazzling Grand Prix headlights to its innovative use of puppetry and grand set. Of course Chitty herself, is nothing short of magical.  The moment she is first lifted into the air is truly breath-taking and a moment I’m sure will be etched in memory of audiences young and old. Jess Viner’s musical direction breathes new life into this classic score, from the first note the audience is swept up in the magic of the melodies, reminding us all of the enduring power of music and imagination.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang provides a night of spectacular talent, nostalgia, adventure and humour captivating audiences of all ages. It is on at The Birmingham Hippodrome until Sunday, March 9, where it will then take flight to Manchester.  Click here for the Birmingham times, tickets and more.

*****

Reviewed by Olivia Skye on behalf of Euan Rose Reviews