Ore Oduba and Ellie Nunn in CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG. Photo Credit: Paul Coltas
With standout performances, infectious comedy, and stunning visuals, CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG is a vibrant, joy-filled spectacle.
In CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG, Ian Fleming wrote, “Never say no to adventures” and anyone attending this touring production is certainly in for an adventure filled with spectacle and infectious joy. From the first note of the overture to the final note of the encore this is a visually stunning theatrical treat. The production has it all; pace, beloved songs, exuberant dance numbers and enough fizz to rival a glass of the finest champagne. Put simply, it is an evening of pure fun.
Ore Oduba shines as Caractacus Potts, delivering a soulful vocal performance and masterful dancing, especially in the high-energy ME OL’ BAMBOO. Liam Fox excels as the irrepressibly eccentric Grandpa Potts, balancing gruffness with warmth. Ellie Nunn completes the central trio as Truly Scrumptious, showcasing a strong voice and excellent characterisation. The chemistry between the three is wonderful, making their ensemble and solo moments equally compelling.
Ore Oduba in CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG. Photo Credit: Paul Coltas
A special mention must go to the two young actors, Lara Simon (Jemima Potts) and Charlie Banks (Jeremy Potts), who deliver capturing, natural performances, with strong stage presence and charming voices.
Comedy plays a major role in the production, with Adam Stafford and Michael Joseph stealing scenes as the hilarious double act Boris and Goran. Not one gesture is wasted, and the audience loves their infectious tomfoolery and topical barbs. Another stand out comedy duo is Martin Callaghan and Jenny Gayner as the Baron and Baroness, who play their roles to maximum effect, breaking the fourth wall to interact with both the audience and the orchestra, particularly in their duet CHU-CHI FACE.
Charlie Brooks in CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG. Photo Credit: Paul Coltas.
Charlie Brooks is chillingly effective as The Childcatcher, embodying pure menace and earning well-deserved boos from the audience. Meanwhile, John Macaulay delivers a heartfelt performance as The Toymaker, a key figure in the world of Vulgaria.
Directed by Simon Greiff, with vibrant choreography by Karen Bruce and inventive set and costume design by Morgan Large, the production bursts with colour. Nowhere is this more evident than in THE BOMBIE SAMBA, where the talented ensemble fills the stage with the energy of a tropical fiesta. The hidden child chorus also impresses, adding depth to the musical numbers.
But CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG is more than just nostalgia, it’s a creative tour de force. And if that wasn’t clear already, the arrival of Chitty herself, gleaming, twinkling, and unstoppable, proves it. As the car floats and flies to cheers from the audience, it reminds us why this musical holds such a special place in our hearts. After all, what would life be without a little adventure?
CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG runs at the Palace Theatre, Manchester, until 16 March 2025
Gillian has a Masters degree in Film Theory and a background in music journalism. A veteran of gig promotion, she loves nothing more than a darkened room, a packet of Revels and a good play. By day she works in medico-legal administration, by night she escapes into theatre for relaxation.
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