Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Like the directors – Narelle Bonnici and Samantha Heskett – I have fond childhood memories of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. All three of us entered the world of Chitty in front of our grandparents’ television.

Even back then, Chitty was dated.

While Ian Fleming’s other creation, James Bond, gets continuously updated, Chitty remains frozen in time. Why? None of today’s cars have enough character to be Chitty.

Chitty tells a funny, nonsensical story about a flying and floating car. And a baron who wants Chitty because, like every spoiled brat, he always gets what he wants.

My adult part sees several plot holes… Take “Toot Sweets,” which fails to move the story forward. But my child part sees that same number as one of the most fantasmagorical, fabulous numbers in the show.

Then, take the dogs. Incredibly well-trained and affectionate, their presence adds nothing to the show. But my child part went “Aww, puppy” every time one appeared on stage.

The success of Chitty depends on it maintaining its high energy. Veteran performer Mark Monroe (Caractacus Potts) serves as the thermostat, setting the energy for the rest of the cast, raising it when it dips.

I do wonder why Rachel Allen (Truly Scrumptious) has waited so long to make her debut. Whether speaking or singing, her voice is melodic. I could have listened to her all night.

So much more added to fabulousness of this production and deserve more commentary than space allows… Keith Greenwood’s set… Maxine Urquhart’s costumes… the children’s ensemble.

Not to mention the delightful performances of Kempton Maloney (Jeremy Potts) and Sophia Grant (Jemima Potts).

For many adults, CenterStage’s Chitty will be a trip back into childhood’s innocence. And for children, an excursion into magic and delight.

Daniel G. Taylor