Theatre South East

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

The Hawth, Crawley

20^th – 25^th August 2024

Directed by Thom Southerland

Many beloved family films are now being adapted into musicals for the stage. The latest reincarnation is the 1968 MGM film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang now touring the country and calling at The Hawth Theatre Crawley this week.  Originally written by Ian Fleming (yes, the James Bond author) and adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams, the show transports people of a certain age on a nostalgic trip down memory lane whilst introducing a young audience to the magic of musical theatre.

Playing Caractacus Potts is Adam Garcia, who is light on his feet and can certainly hold a note.. he is perfect in role of the inventor and affectionate father of Jeremy and Jemina (at last night’s performance played by Charlie McGuire and Isla Ithier). Love interest Truly Scrumptious is played by Ellie Nunn who is delightfully sassy and a joy to watch. They are supported by a strong cast which includes Liam Fox (Grandpa), Martin Callaghan and Jenny Gayner playing the Baron and Baroness (although last night we watched Hadrian Delaney understudying the Baron) and Charlie Brooks as the Childcatcher.

Be warned if you are going solely to see Charlie Brooks, don’t get me wrong she plays a marvellously chilling Childcatcher however she must be on stage for a total of ten minutes or so in the whole show. A shame… she smashed each scene she was in.

The energetic ensemble are well utilized and a joy to watch, there was even a small juvenile ensemble provided by Roshe Performing Arts

Despite it many good points, I was taken aback by some of the antiquated humour and was disappointed that some of the dialogue was lost because it was being rushed or inaudible due to the heavy use of unnecessary accents. My biggest gripe, however, w.as that some of the scenes which were meant to be flirtatious were over the top and not necessary for a children’s show.

But my gripes don’t matter, because the star of the show, is truly a star! ….. the car itself. The special effects surrounding Chitty Chitty Bang Bang were lovely and the audience roared in full appreciation. It was truly magical to see a car fly and have a life of it’s own. Bravo to all concerned.

All in all, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is well performed, packed full of punchy songs, dazzling choreography (Karen Bruce) and sumptuous costumes (Morgan Large), and well worth seeing.

It is a summer holiday treat for children of all ages.

⭐⭐⭐

Reviewer: Sammi O’Neill