Written by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review

The Christchurch Theatre Club is a well-established East Midlands musical theatre group, proudly presenting fully staged productions since 1970. This winter, their talented and much-loved company brings a welcome burst of sunshine to the stage with the classic musical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Based on Ian Fleming’s 1964 children’s novel, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang captured the hearts of families worldwide when it was adapted into a film four years later, starring the legendary Dick Van Dyke. A subsequent stage adaptation followed in 2002, where it made its West End debut at the London Palladium. It has been on multiple UK tours since, and there’s definitely a universal appeal about this musical, which makes it perfect for audiences of all ages to enjoy.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang tells the story of eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, who restores a magical car with extraordinary powers. Alongside his children and the spirited Truly Scrumptious, the car whisks them away on a fantastical adventure that includes making a daring escape from the Childcatcher and the Baron and Baroness of Bomburst of Vulgaria. This musical is ultimately a heartwarming tale about imagination, courage, and the importance of family.

Directed by Nick Sutcliffe, this small-scale production is packed with magic, bringing a fresh charm to a much-loved musical. Although the production doesn’t have elaborate scenic design, Sutcliffe utilises every moment he has as a director to ensure that this production still has some kind of “wow factor” for audiences, with the Chitty car being worth the ticket alone! Frankie Johnson’s choreography is clean and well-rehearsed with “Me Ol’ Bamboo” being a particular stand out.

The Sherman Brothers’ beautiful score is performed live by the orchestra under the direction of Musical Director Vicki Hing, and it certainly gives you goosebumps!

There are standout performances throughout the production, with Ben Burgess and Anja Zeman a delight to watch as Caractacus Potts and Truly Scrumptious. Their onstage chemistry creates a truly endearing portrayal of the characters’ growing relationship throughout the course of this show, and their interactions with the Potts children, played at our performance by Henry Langley and Amelie Vickers, were equally charming and engaging. Langley and Vickers were very professional and came onto the stage oozing confidence in their big roles!

Featuring a young ensemble split into Team Truly and Team Scrumptious, local children from Brightlights Theatre School and Gracedieu Academy of Dance make the most of every moment on stage, shining with energy and enthusiasm. At our performance, the young cast included Riley Bailey, Evie Robinson, Esmae-Rose Goodwin, Isabelle Clarke, Ell-J Thurman, Rosy Allen, Ruby Davenport, Lilian McFerran, and Brooke Wingfield. A shoutout to Ezra Hinsley-Sarkar, who melted the hearts of the entire audience (even the Childcatcher) with just one line that he sang.

The true gems of this production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang are its comedic characters, whose performances are exceptional and elevate the show throughout. Jarrod Makin and Isaac Banda are instantly likable as Boris and Goran, delivering perfectly timed comedy and having the audience in fits of laughter. Jonathan Penton and Gemma Farnell are wonderfully entertaining as Baron and Baroness Bomburst, delivering a scene-stealing performance. Their rendition of “Chu Chi Face” proved to be the show-stopping moment of the night. Their relationship is genius as it works so perfectly for their individual characters, and I’d go and see this show - just to see them again!

Productions like this one from Christchurch Theatre Club are vital for keeping theatre accessible to everyone, especially when many regional venues are pricing audiences out with tickets of £70 or more in recent months. Packed with so much heart and showcasing a talented ensemble from all walks of life, this production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a shining example of community theatre at its best - and it’s not to be missed!

Plays until 24 January 2026

★★★★★

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