Chitty Chitty Bang Bang At The Kings Theatre, Portsmouth Review

Reviewed by Lily B

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang has come to the Kings Theatre, Portsmouth for one week only and opening night certainly did open with a bang! With many performances already being fully sold out, it is highly anticipated to be the talk of the town! Adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams, this production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is based on the family favourite MGM Motion Picture of the same name. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a children’s adventure story completely with thrills, mystery, comedy and action written by the iconic creator of James Bond, Ian Fleming.  Under the direction of Jack Edwards and producer Paul Woolf, non-professional cast members perform at the Kings Theatre alongside professional lighting set-ups, set design and production teams. They really have achieved something special with this production.

Paul Clements sets the scene as loveable inventor Caractacus Potts. His comedic timing, charming and note perfect vocal performances were a delight. Alongside him, Georgia Deloise is utter perfection as the delightful Truly Scrumptious. She blew audiences away with an amazing performance of Doll on a Music Box as well as Lovely Lonely Man. Her voice was vocally strong, clear and crisp and we were left wanting more from her.

John Betteworth, an am-dram veteran with over 45 years experience, was utterly fantastic in the role of the Baron. Alongside Andee Jordan as his Baroness Bomburst they are a partnership made in theatre heaven. Hilarious, vocally excellent with perfect comedic timing that left us whooping and cheering. Firm favourites throughout the show, they were cast brilliantly and added so much to the production. Audience members could be heard leaving the theatre to loud renditions of ‘Chu-Chi face” which was a delight to behold.

Two other firm favourites were the spies who brought a great deal of excitement to the stage with each and every appearance. Chris Ballard and Callum Tickner were fantastic as Boris and Goran, with hilarious one liners delivered with ease. They also joined a wonderful ensemble cast who guided us through each scene with high-end dance routines perfectly choreographed and delivered.

Cohen Bates and Jemima May Rees were the real stars of the show as Jeremy and Jemima Potts.  Oozing confidence, musicality and stage presence they delivered lines clearly and each performance was note perfect. Judging by the standing ovation they received at the end of the performance, the audience were all enthralled with their time on stage.

But we can’t talk about the show without mentioning the one and only Chitty! The question on my children’s lips: “Will she fly?” was answered to raucous applauses, cheers and delight as she took to the sky at the end of Act One. The energy in the room during that moment was electrifying.

This show epitimises all the values that Kings Theatre hold dear. A fabulous, first-rate show comprising of members of the community and local am-dram organisations across the south coast, for the benefit of the local community. In this case add the west-end production values and you have an unbeatable show. Tickets are already selling fast so get in quick; I guarantee you won’t be disappointed. What more can be said about this amazing production except: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang….WE LOVE YOU!

Rating: 5/5

Tickets can be purchased from www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk

From Tuesday 11th April to Saturday 15th April

Prices start from £18