What’s On: Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth

IAN Fleming’s much loved classic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will fly into Bournemouth’s Pavilion Theatre for a five-night run.

Hailed as the most fantasmagorical musical of all time, the family show features a cast including EastEnders stalwart Charlie Brooks as the Childcatcher and former Emmerdale star Liam Fox as Grandpa Potts.

The brand-new production of the also stars Adam Ore Oduda as Caractacus Potts.

Based on Fleming’s timeless story for children and later made into the famous 1968 film, in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang audiences are introduced to the absent-minded inventor Caractacus Potts who restores a broken-down old racing car with the help of his children Jemima and Jeremy.

Soon the family discover the car has magical powers, and along with the delectable Truly Scrumptious and Grandpa Potts, they end up on a fantastical adventure to far-off lands. Their heart-warming journey makes Chitty Chitty Bang Bang a fun-filled hit for all the family.

The production is directed by Thom Southerland and choreographed by Karen Bruce (BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing).

Thom said: “Although this is a story that is very well-known and loved by audiences, there are also aspects of the original story which are lesser known and which we will be showcasing in our version.

“Of course, our show will still have all the wonderful parts that we remember from the film. Caractacus Potts will still have his bamboo stick to dance to Me Ol’Bamboo, and we will be dancing through Scrumptious’s sweet factory to Toot Sweets, but we will also be bringing something that feels fresh and new within this story and have even added some new songs.”

Thom continued: “One thing we definitely won’t be changing, though, is Chitty herself. She will be as spectacular as ever and I can’t wait to see her take flight.”

The award-winning musical will be bursting with unforgettable songs by the Sherman Brothers.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is at Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth from Wednesday 19th March until Sunday 23rd March. Tickets from £15 for more information and bookings visit bournemouthpavilion.co.uk