Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Palace Theatre – musical soars over Manchester

Manchester’s Palace Theatre is currently hosting Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, a magical production that blends nostalgia with theatrical brilliance.

Directed by Thom Southerland, this UK tour reimagines the beloved 1968 film and stage musical with charm, energy, and a touch of theatrical wizardry, captivating audiences of all ages.

Ore Oduba leads the cast as Caractacus Potts, bringing a perfect mix of warmth, humour, and sincerity to the role of the eccentric inventor. His performance is particularly striking in the tender Hushabye Mountain, where his vocals offer an emotional depth to the character’s love for his late wife.

Oduba shares great chemistry with Charlie Banks and Lara Simons, who play his children, Jeremy and Jemima. Their natural on-stage dynamic creates an authentic portrayal of a loving family, drawing the audience into their heartwarming journey.

Ellie Nunn shines as Truly Scrumptious, exuding elegance while also showcasing a feisty, independent spirit. From her determined motorcycle repair scene to her stunning rendition of Doll on a Music Box, Nunn delivers a standout performance that is both captivating and graceful.

Her chemistry with Oduba is truly heartwarming, especially in Lovely Lonely Man, where she sings while soaring through the sky in Chitty, adding a magical touch to the production.

The supporting cast brings further joy to the performance. Martin Callaghan and Jenny Gayner are a riot as the Baron and Baroness Bomburst, delivering impeccable comic timing and embracing a delightfully over-the-top, camp portrayal of the royal couple.

Adam Stafford and Michael Joseph, as the bumbling spies Boris and Goran, add slapstick humour in the Palace Theatre, though some of their repetitive jokes wear thin after a while.

Charlie Brooks, however, stands out as the chilling Child Catcher, leaving a sinister impression on the audience. Though her presence is limited, Brooks’ commanding performance proves she could have taken up more space in the production.

A unique feature of this production is the inclusion of local young performers in each city. In Manchester, children from Elm Arts Company join the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang ensemble for a special musical number in Act Two. Their high-energy performance adds an extra layer of magic, demonstrating their talent and enthusiasm, leaving the audience wanting more.

The show’s timeless score, composed by the Sherman Brothers, is a major highlight. Iconic numbers like Me Ol’ Bamboo and Toot Sweets energise the crowd, with the dance routine for Me Ol’ Bamboo being a particularly thrilling moment. The live orchestra enhances the grandeur of the production, giving it the feel of a West End show.

The ensemble’s physicality in the dance numbers and their ability to bring the infectious energy of the music to life is impressive.

Morgan Large’s set design is inventive, using movable crates and backdrops to transition smoothly between scenes. The clever use of puppetry, especially with the English sheepdog Edison, adds a whimsical touch that delights the audience, particularly younger viewers.

However, while the sets are practical and effective for a touring production, some of the locations – such as the sweet factory and Bulgarian palace – lack the grandeur expected in a show like Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, especially when compared to the central spectacle of the magical flying car.

Chitty herself is the undeniable star of the show. The car’s flying sequence is a breathtaking moment, earning a spontaneous round of applause as it soars through the air, capturing the audience’s imagination.

Though the show is filled with charm, there are moments where it embraces pantomime-style comedy, especially in the Vulgarian scenes. While this approach is fun for younger audiences, some adults may find it a bit overplayed. The use of innuendos adds another layer of humour, one that goes unnoticed by children but provides a good laugh for the grown-ups, continuing the tradition of classic British wit.

At the end of the show, the company paid a heartfelt tribute to James Lee Williams, also known as The Vivienne, who portrayed the Child Catcher in previous performances. This tribute added an emotional layer to the production, and their portrayal left a lasting impression on the audience.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the Palace Theatre is a truly scrumptious production, combining outstanding performances, memorable songs, and magical stage effects to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re revisiting this childhood classic or discovering it for the first time, this high-flying adventure is sure to leave you with a smile – and perhaps a catchy tune in your head long after the final curtain.

The production runs until Saturday 16 March so make sure you don’t miss the chance to experience this timeless masterpiece, brought to life here at The Palace Theatre, Manchester – grab tickets HERE.

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Featured image: Paul Coltas