Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, based on Ian Fleming’s childrens’ story, is a timeless classic that originally graced the cinema screen over half a century ago and has continued to captivate audiences worldwide since its stage adaptation in 2002. Its enduring appeal transcends age groups, offering a captivating blend of magic, humour, and villainy. This Blyth MTC production proved no exception, delivering an enchanting evening for families to experience.

Costumed hosts welcomed patrons to The Phoenix Theatre with enthusiasm and infectious smiles, immediately immersing the sold-out audience into the show's ambiance. This thoughtful touch set the tone for an engaging theatrical experience.

While the set remained necessarily understated, the production team's ingenuity allowed the inclusion of two full-sized vintage cars (provided by Scenery Solutions) on the relatively modest stage of the Theatre. Each scene, Stage Managed by Chris Langlands and his team, seamlessly transitioned with appropriate props (Sonia Hall and Andrew Herron), furniture, and superb video backdrops (some of which were animated, which gave the experience of sailing/flying). The lighting/video projection by Brightstar Lighting and Sound with sound effects by Dazzling Sounds proved integral to elevating the atmosphere across all scenes – even though, in my opinion, the sound volume was a little harsh at times.

Throughout the production, the costumes displayed remarkable attention to detail, enhancing each scene's authenticity and vividly brought characters to life. However, I have another negative to mention here, as several members of the cast were wearing either trainers or sports shoes !.

The music of the show under the direction of John Hudson, hidden away in the Green Room with his ten piece band, achieved an excellent balance between instrumental support and vocal performance. The harmonious blend between the band and the singers was consistently maintained. Both the principal cast and chorus were captivating in their vocal delivery.

Director Jackie Grey deserves accolades for her vision and production. Throughout the show, the cast exuded genuine enjoyment whilst executing their roles and dialogue with confidence. The movement and dancing was good and was nicely choreographed by Jackie and Hayleigh Rose.

About a hundred years ago, when I was playing leading roles, I always did my best to appear to ‘fall in love’ with my leading lady. Unfortunately, Paul Godfrey playing Caractacus Potts and Elle Richardson as Truly Scrumptious didn’t seem to have that ‘spark’ to make us believe there was a love interest. Even though they delivered their libretto and sang very well, I just wasn’t convinced… call me old fashioned !.

There were some stand-out character contributions – Andrew Herron as a very funny and likeable Grandpa Potts, the principal children (on the night we attended) Charlotte Pledger-Lowes and Ollie Rames played the parts of Jemima and Jeremy Potts superbly well. Gavin Simpson-White and Judith Leese were thoroughly entertaining and comedic as Baron and Baroness Bomburst. As were Kieren Simm and Will Robinson as the two spies Goran and Boris. Well done to all.

The supporting actors also played a huge part in the success of the production; Michael Douglas (Toy Maker), Mark Robinson (Child Catcher), Chris Spratt (Mr Coggins and several others), Bob Douglas (Lord Scrumptious) and Kath Dryden (Miss Philips). The ensemble and youth academy teams were also vital to the production; all of whom played their collective and individual parts extremely well.

All in all, the show was a triumph, both in terms of the sold-out signs for all performances, together with their artistic quality, as the standing applause showed following the final curtain. Congratulations to all concerned.

Finally, thanks to Chairman Maurice from me and my companion Pauleen, Councillor Peter, Youth Coordinator Michelle, and Past President Gordon for an excellent night’s entertainment and also for the invitation and hospitality.

 

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