Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

You hear the title ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ and you know you are on to a winner with this family favourite. This musical fantasy following eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, his children, and Truly Scrumptious as they restore a wrecked racing car that gains magical flying and floating abilities. They travel to Vulgaria to battle the child-hating Baron Bomburst and the sinister Child Catcher, saving their family and a kingdom of hidden children.

The first thing that hits you about this show is the stunning scenery and effects, not only the flying car but the hair-cutting bicycle to name just two. Add an extremely talented cast, a very competent orchestra and you have a success. Brett Dewsbury stars as the inventor, Caractacus Potts. It is difficult to look past Dick van Dyke when this character is mentioned but Brett did a first-class job. His relationship with his children was completely believable and his vocals never faltered, many a tissue was obvious in the audience during his rendition of Hushabye Mountain. Rebecca Pursehouse was Truly Scrumptious, she looked the part and her performance on the music box was outstanding. Grandpa Potts was played by Keith Merrall, he had all the mannerisms you would expect from Grandpa and had a warm feel to his character. On the evening I saw the show, Jeremy and Jemima were played by Jenson Done & Elisia Brain respectively. They had a cheekiness about them and also a cuteness, if that’s possible? I was extremely impressed by the vocal lines carried by both of them, confidently singing well-taught harmony lines. I’m sure that Brandon Westaway and Millie Parsons would have been equally impressive at their performances.

Baron and Baroness Bomburst were played by Adam Merrall and Ellie Simpson. Their relationship with each other was well rehearsed and it was obvious who wore the trousers in that home! Their rendition of Chu-chi Face was well delivered and equally well received by the audience. Alex Woolliscroft really looked the part of the Child Catcher, there were many members of the audience, young and old, trembling when he appeared on stage. Alex moved so gracefully around the stage but equally menacing at the same time. Boris and Goran are the two spies, enlisted to steal the car. What could possibly go wrong? Alex Davis and Kian Kirwin are definitely a comedy duo to be reckoned with, the timing of their delivery was spot on. They commanded the stage and the level of excitement grew in the audience when they appeared. Brian Washington completed the cast list as the Toymaker, filling in background detail to the capture of children in Vulgaria. Mention must be made of the Inventors and their ‘Grow the Roses’ scene, each one of them developed some sort of infliction and maintained it throughout causing much amusement to everyone watching.

Once again, the cast were supported by a strong ensemble with dance routines created by choreographer, Sian Cameron-Richardson, and confident vocal harmonies under the direction of Musical Director Alex Priestley. Added to this time by a youth ensemble of Lollipops and Treacle Tarts! Here again, a strong, confident performance from all involved.

The show was headed up by directors Kelly and Richard Tye. This was surely a challenge to take on and, as they say, they had to be ‘part director, part inventor and occasionally part child catcher.’ However, every one of these parts was executed with expertise and the show was a credit to their professionalism.

It is always a joy to watch the productions of BMTC, and you never go away disappointed. Congratulations to everyone involved in another spectacular show.

John Nicholls. Regional Representative District 11

Having attended my first performance by Brownhills Musical Theatre Company last year for their superb production of Jesus Christ Superstar, I was eagerly awaiting Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

I attended the Saturday matinee alongside the National President of NODA. Following a warm welcome from Brian Hirst, President of BMTC, we took our seats in a full auditorium. It was pleasing to see so many younger audience members who, along with many others, joined in clapping along to the familiar overture.

I can only echo John’s thoughts regarding the show itself and all those involved. I also saw Jenson and Elisia as Jeremy and Jemima, both of whom were very accomplished in their roles, albeit for the final time, which naturally made the curtain call rather emotional. I was, however, pleased to speak with Millie Parson, who was enjoying the show on her afternoon off.

The use of the stage was excellent, and I particularly liked the use of each side of the circle during the telephone call scene near the beginning of the show, as well as other moments where the auditorium itself was incorporated into the action. This even included the antics of Boris and Goran during the interval.

Finally, I must give a special mention to Jake Owen for his amazing acrobatic skills as one of the inventors.

Post-show, I was delighted, once again alongside the National President, to join the company on stage for a group photograph and to have the opportunity to speak with several members of the cast. Sadly, I was unable to personally congratulate everyone due to time constraints, but nevertheless, congratulations to all involved.

I most certainly look forward to seeing everyone at BMTC again in the near future, whether for We Will Rock You or Shrek the Musical.

Andy Brown, Regional Councillor NODA West Midlands.  

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