Whether reliving the nostalgia of a quintessentially British great, or introducing a new generation to the classic, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang's timelessness transcends once again upon its latest UK tour. Drawing in audiences of all ages, the family-friendly musical is wacky and wonderful, much alike the beloved film in its presentation.
When a threat of losing their champion racing car arises, Jeremy and Jemima (played by Roshan Thomson and Gracie Cochrane respectively for this performance) can't bear to let her go. In a desperate bid to keep her memory aliveb and burning, the charming young pair plead for their father to buy their special vehicle. After a flustered flurry to find the finances, it is no secret to us that it remains their joy. Enhancing its fantasmigorical features, Caractacus Potts - Adam Garcia playing the avid inventor - works night and day to surprise his precious children with the newfangled beauty.
Although categorically an adventure piece, comedy elements are heavily rooted in this depiction, being focal in a way that somewhat detracts and overpowers the quality of most subtle theatricals that demonstrate the craft behind the production. On one hand, the strong charactisations from Adam Stafford (Boris), Michael Joseph (Goran), Jenny Gayner (the Baroness) and Martin Callaghan (the Baron) give a humorous impression as citizens of Vulgaria, but tread a thin line between this and it spoiling the enchantment of the artistry through the silliness of the accents and quips. There are pockets of magic that express the best a touring show has to offer, truly bringing the car itself to the forefront of the viewing. However, these big technicalities have to cause sacrifices elsewhere, thus narrowing the scope of the set's transformative qualities. Caratacus' workshop and moments at the Pott's home are joyously quirky scenes, though sadly the extent to which you feel part of the production - many parts are happening in front of a curtain, allowing for the mechanics of big segments but also undermining other aspects of the script. The Vivienne is perfect for the Childcatcher role, incorporating that uneasy, edgy feel with convincing sense, particularly during the solo 'Kiddie Widdie Winkies'. Overall, the first act certainly feels as if it holds more weight in its progression than the second.
That being said, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang remains a defiantly reliable hit. Ellie Nunn offers a dreamy depiction of Truly Scrumptious with graceful tones and a sharp yet swiftly adored personality. Creating that vocal blend that notably distinguishes the music of the Sherman brothers, Adam and Ellie do a sterling job together, projecting a playful level of chemistry that works well. With the title track being the ultimate earworm, it is actually only a fraction of those that we all know and love. 'You Two' and 'Hushabye Mountain' bring the softening comfort of the father-children dynamic, while 'Toot Sweets' and 'Me Ol' Bam-Boo' offer some engrossing company choreography by Karen Bruce to match the upbeat bops. Grandpa Potts (Liam Fox) has his main rendition during 'Posh!', and 'Truly Scrumptious' is a beautiful song for the mix too.
In summary, there are numerous positives about this famed fantasy returning to the stage. With this in mind, there is some margin for error as its adoration is guaranteed to have audiences intrigued and seeking reminiscence of the story. Although arguably tailored even more in the direction of children than originally, the entrancing flights are a sight to behold, and a memory that will be kept.
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