April 2025
From the moment the curtain lifted at the Wales Millennium Centre, the latest UK touring
production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang proved to be an absolute triumph. Directed by Thom
Southerland (Titanic, Parade) and featuring choreography by Strictly Come Dancing’s Karen
Bruce, the show delivers charm, humour, and a hearty dose of stage magic that captivated
audiences of all ages.

A Magical Journey with a Star-Studded Cast
This high-energy retelling of Ian Fleming’s classic children’s tale – made famous by the 1968
film – is brought to life by a stellar cast led by Strictly Come Dancing winner Ore Oduba as
the loveable inventor Caractacus Potts. Oduba balances warm-hearted eccentricity and
fatherly sincerity with flair. He’s joined by Ellie Nunn (Shakespeare in Love, Identical) as
Truly Scrumptious, who brings elegance and warmth to the role, while young actors
portraying Jeremy and Jemima shine brightly in every scene they grace.
Liam Fox (Emmerdale) provides comedic grounding as the dotty Grandpa Potts, but the
night’s biggest laughs came courtesy of Adam Stafford and Michael Joseph as bumbling
spies Boris and Goran. Their impeccable comic timing had the audience in stitches, proving
that the show’s humour hits just as well for adults as it does for kids.
And then there’s EastEnders legend Charlie Brooks – returning to her role as the villainous
Childcatcher – whose chilling performance raised goosebumps across the auditorium. With
her theatrical pedigree and a deliciously sinister edge, Brooks commanded every moment
she was on stage.

West End-Calibre Production Values
The production design by Morgan Large (Newsies, Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat)
is nothing short of breathtaking. Vibrant, dynamic sets transported us from the Potts’
eccentric home to the whimsical and dangerous land of Vulgaria, all enhanced by Ben
Cracknell’s atmospheric lighting and Gareth Tucker’s sharp sound design.
But of course, the crowning achievement is the car itself. Chitty’s iconic flight was met with
audible gasps – a true theatrical spectacle that left everyone wondering, “How did they do
that?” The illusion of flight was seamless, magical, and a testament to the technical prowess
behind this show.

A Feel-Good Night Out for Everyone
The entire evening buzzed with energy. There was singing, clapping and even a few tears of
joy. The musical numbers – from the tender “Hushabye Mountain” to the rousing title track –
were delivered with gusto, under the musical supervision of George Dyer (Annie, Billy Elliot).
Each moment was packed with nostalgia and vibrancy, drawing frequent applause from the
packed auditorium.

 

Final Thought
Would we recommend Chitty Chitty Bang Bang? Absolutely. Whether you’re taking the kids
for a magical first theatre experience, reliving a childhood favourite, or simply in search of a
heartwarming night out, this show delivers in every possible way.
It’s funny, visually stunning and full of heart – a must-see production that proves, once again,
that sometimes, theatre really can take you on a flight of fancy.