Tuesday 19th – Sunday 24th November 2024 – Congress Theatre, Eastbourne
5 stars
The Chitty Chitty Bang Bang musical at Eastbourne Congress Theatre is a joyful burst of theatre magic that has the audience hooked from the first note. Full of heart, humour and dazzling performances, it’s a brilliant reminder of why this classic tale is loved by all ages.
The story follows eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, his two lively children Jeremy and Jemima and the lovely Truly Scrumptious as they take their magical car on an unforgettable adventure. Adam Garcia leads the charge as Caractacus, blending warmth and charm with top-notch dancing, especially in the crowd-pleasing Me Ol’ Bam-Boo.
Ellie Nunn is the perfect Truly Scrumptious, bringing real likeability and a stunning voice to the role. Melody Caruana and Huxley Syers, as Jeremy and Jemima, are little stars in the making. Their performances are full of confidence, energy and just the right amount of sweetness.
Liam Fox’s Grandpa Potts delivers plenty of laughs, especially with his rendition of POSH, while the ensemble cast shine in big numbers like Toot Sweets and The Bombie Samba. The choreography is slick and exciting, keeping the energy levels sky-high.
The Vulgarians steal every scene they’re in. Martin Callaghan and Jenny Gayner as the over-the-top Baron and Baroness are comedy gold. Adam Stafford and Michael Joseph, as bumbling spies Boris and Goran, have the audience in stitches with their antics and the hilarious Act English song.
The Vivienne (Drag Race UK winner gives a spine-chilling portrayal of the Child Catcher. Creepy, camp and commanding, it’s a standout performance that lingers long after the curtain falls.
Chitty herself is the ultimate star with flying sequences that leave the audience in awe. A small technical hiccup doesn’t dampen the magic of the moment, proving why live theatre is so special.
With catchy songs, stunning visuals and a feel-good story, this production is a wildly entertaining for all the family. The well-deserved standing ovation says it all.Â
