Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Theatre Royal Plymouth Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Linda Curtain
What a wonderful way to start the sunny month of May – the arrival of that Phantasmagorical machine Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the Theatre Royal Plymouth this week. A firm family favourite, this musical joins a whole list of amazing productions the theatre has lined up over the coming months.
This timeless classic which is based on the 1964 children’s novel by Ian Fleming, originally transferred to the stage in 2002 following the screen adaptation in 1968. Now enjoying its fourth UK tour, this new production is sure to enthral adults and youngsters alike.
On arriving at the theatre last evening, the atmosphere was amazing with a capacity audience excited to be witnessing the opening night. The theatre is easy to access by car or public transport, situated on the Royal Parade bus route and having several nearby car parks. Theatre staff are always helpful and welcoming and everyone was seamlessly directed to their seats in the auditorium.
With music and lyrics by the Sherman Brothers, as soon as the overture of well known songs commenced the audience were clapping along heralding the start of a brilliant evening.
The story focuses on eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts and his two children Jemima and Jeremy. An unexpected meeting with Truly Scrumptious – who in this production is an updated independent young lady – changed their lives and with the completion of their father’s magical car, numerous adventures ensued.
From the opening scenes at the race track – where Chitty started out her life – to the grand finale, the production was packed with colour, comedy and high energy.
Ore Oduba played the eccentric Caractacus Potts – such an enjoyable character to watch with great versatility executing some tricky choreography with ease.
Truly Scrumptious was played by Ellie Nunn – a really gifted performer who captured the character so well with a great chemistry showing between her and the Potts family throughout. The duet with Ore ‘Doll on a Music Box’ was amazing both vocally and with precise choreography.
The pairing of the two spies and the Baron and Baroness added a good comedy element but this did become a bit pantomime like at times.
Liam Fox as Grandpa had a good rapport with the Potts family and added good comedy events at times.
Charlie Brooks’s portrayal of the Childcatcher was great with a good sinister edge. Wonderful acting and great vocals.
Jemima and Jeremy Potts were so professional in their roles – very clear diction and great singing voices.
Also the small group of children who had been captured in the castle were very confident and gave a very slick dance routine.
And finally the star of the show – that fine four-fendered friend Chitty Chitty Bang Bang! The moment the car was revealed in all her glory and took to the skies over the stage was truly magical.
Director Thom Southerland along with choreographer Karen Bruce have certainly worked well with this talented company to produce an energetic and dynamic show.
Costumes were bright and colourful and the simple set designs were very effective.
Certainly a timeless classic merging comedy, music and dance with a hint of nostalgia. A truly wizard, smashing and phantasmagorical production for all the family.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £40
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is at the Theatre Royal Plymouth from 7th – 10th May 2025. For more information or to book the limited remaining tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com or contact the box office on 01752 668282.