Since it was first released in 1968, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang has been loved by generations of children and grownups.
And now there’s the chance to re-discover this magical tale billed as ‘The most fantasmagorical stage musical in the history of everything’ at West Yorkshire Playhouse and take my word for it – it is.
It took until 2002 for the film to be put on stage in the West End and this new production directed by James Brining is the first since that original production.
Based on Ian Fleming’s only children’s story it tells the tale of an ancient car brought lovingly to life by Caractacus Potts and his two children.
Like one of the songs from the show “Teamwork” this production could not excel as it does without it. Not just on stage but off, for this show is a hot-bed of technical genius, imaginative design by Simon Higlett and scenic and special effects wonder . It has to be as it achieves the almost impossible – a musical that is as splendid in its own genre as the film with a car that really does fly.
Brining’s production is fast, furious and slick yet at times its intimate and poignant with waves of fabulously induced comedy to appeal to everyone. The music comes through thick and fast leaving little opportunity for kids to become restless as one scene explodes into the next.
Some of the finest choreography ever to grace the stage of the WYPH comes from Stephen Mear. Me Ol’ Bamboo, a difficult number to both choreograph and dance, was an ultimate choreographic triumph for Mear.
Although there are no big names, WYPH has assembled a strong, talented cast with some fine character actors who have to and do turn their skills to anything.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is above all a happy show with a fabulous feel good factor that will have you singing its songs all the way home.
Runs to 30 January before embarking on a year long national tour of the UK.
Review by Liz Coggins