Review: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang has flown into Manchester’s Palace Theatre and will be delighting audiences until Sunday 16th March

Charlotte from our Kids Live @5 team and mum Catherine went along to the opening night and had a Truly Scrumptious time!  Here’s their report..

This week, we were delighted to attend the opening performance of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the Palace Theatre, Manchester.  This spectacular and magical family musical certainly exceeded all our expectations.

The stage show is directed by Thom Southerland, and is based on the classic children’s book by Ian Fleming, and the 1968 musical film. 

The story centres around the inventor, Caractacus Potts as he rebuilds an old racing car that possesses magical powers, including the ability to fly. 

Ore Oduba delivers a sincere and authentic performance as widower Caractacus Potts and comes to life in the excellently choreographed ensemble number, Me Ol’ Bamboo.  

Ellie Nunn has a wonderful voice and displays star quality in her role as Truly Scrumptious. Her performance of Doll on a Music Box is captivating. 

Liam Fox is well-cast in his role as the eccentric Grandpa Potts. 

Charlie Brooks also plays a convincing villain in her unique performance as The Child Catcher.

The show has an abundance of slapstick comedy moments from Adam Stafford and Michael Joseph as the spies, Boris and Goran. Martin Callaghan and Jenny Gayner are also absolutely hilarious as the Baron and Baroness.

However, the most memorable characters in the show are the talented child actors,  Lara Simon and Charlie Banks, who play Jemima and Jeremy Potts.  Their on-stage rapport with the adult characters is so genuine and heart-warming.

The show is packed full of well-known, infectious musical numbers including the infamous Chitty Chitty Bang Bang theme song, Toot Sweets and Truly Scrumptious, as well as more delicate vocal performances like Hushabye Mountain and Lovely, Lonely Man.

However, the highlights of the show are the jaw-dropping moments when the shiny and spectacular Chitty Chitty Bang Bang car is revealed for the first time and when it finally flies into the air.

Overall, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang delivers a magical and unforgettable experience for the whole family. 

We had a fantastic evening and would highly recommend this show to all ages!

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Catch Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the Palace Theatre Manchester until Sunday 16th March.

Tue – Sat at 19:00
Wed, Sat, and Sun at 14:00

Tickets are from £34 plus booking fee and available at ATG Tickets.