Review: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Palace Theatre is ‘full of incredible stagecraft and unforgettable performances’

Filled with laugh-out-loud moments, jaw-dropping stage magic, and heartfelt performances, this stage adaptation more than does justice to the classic story. From children giggling in their seats to adults chuckling at cleverly placed jokes, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a show that truly charms all ages.

Audiences are whisked away on a whimsical adventure with eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts, his two children, and the enchanting Truly Scrumptious as they bring a magical car to life — and set off on a journey filled with surprises, unforgettable characters, and spectacular flying scenes that leave the crowd in awe.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Palace Theatre

Palace Theatre is filled with laughter by people of all ages enjoying the show. This show appeals to children, yet still offers hilariously crude humour for the adults too.

The performers create an electric atmosphere, with the success of the show being undeniable and the show ending in a standing ovation.

Even as I exit the theatre, I overhear excited conversations from the crowd, many of whom continue to sing the iconic theme song and rave about the brilliance of the performance.

“Incredible stagecraft”

One of the standout features of the production is the levitating car, which effortlessly glides in the air. This remarkable piece of stagecraft adds to the magic of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and seems to take on a life of its own, almost as if the car has a personality.

Michael Seaman’s lighting design is integral to the production’s magic, enhancing the illusion of the car flying through the night sky as its seamless motion creates a truly immersive experience.

Seaman’s use of cool blue lighting contrasts with warmer tones set the mood and enhance the audience’s connection with the characters while their stories develop though the show.

The production’s set design and costumes further immerse you in a world that feels like a time machine back to the early 1900s. The rich feature pieces on the set, coupled with the Edwardian Era clothing, transport the audience into the fantasy world where the boundaries of reality and imagination blur.

The entire production offers a delightful escapism, inviting you to forget the world outside and become fully absorbed in this whimsical adventure.

Awesome audience interaction

Chitty is filled with clever use of humour and interaction with the audience. There are moments when the fourth wall is broken, with the actors engaging briefly with the crowd, creating moments of spontaneity and laughter.

However, this interaction never disrupts the illusion of the story, allowing the magic of the performance to remain intact while offering a playful connection between the actors and the audience.

The exceptional Ore Oduba

Ore Oduba delivers an exceptional performance as Caractacus Potts, capturing the heart of the character with his warm, fatherly presence and captivating vocals. His chemistry with the children on stage makes you grow a bond with him and draws the audience into his journey.

Ellie Nunn, portraying Truly Scrumptious, shines with a sweet, angelic performance that makes her endearing. Her portrayal of Truly’s innocence is captivating, and her performance of the iconic music box scene is a true highlight, brilliantly capturing the magic and nostalgia from the film.

Jenny Gayner as the Baroness is completely hilarious, with her performance leaving you laughing so hard throughout the show. When Gayner shows up on stage the unpredictability of her character surprises the audience, whether it is a silly dance routine, song or just a ridiculous outfit change. Her performance is a highlight for me and I’ll be excited to see more of her in the future.

Overall, it’s a wonderful experience, combining unforgettable performances, stunning stagecraft, and a magical atmosphere that transports you to a world of wonder.

Tickets for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at Palace Theatre

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is on at the Palace Theatre from Tuesday 11th March- Sundayy 16th Mar 2025 .

You can get tickets by clicking here