British classic completely reimagined to delight new and old audiences alike.
One of my earliest theatre memories is seeing Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at the Edinburgh Playhouse, watching both the famous car and the Childcatcher soar above the audience in equal measures of wonder and terror. Nearly twenty years later, it was a pleasure to encounter a production that feels entirely fresh while retaining all the heart that has made the musical such an enduring family favourite.
The Watermill Theatre has built a reputation for ambitious reimaginings, and this production may be one of its most impressive achievements yet. Directed by Paul Hart, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang transforms the theatre and its surroundings into a world of invention, adventure and imagination. Supported by Katie Lias’ inventive design and excellent lighting from Jai Morjaria, the result is a production that feels both intimate and spectacular.
The story itself remains as charming as ever, following inventor Caractacus Potts, his children Jeremy and Jemima, and Truly Scrumptious on their fantastical journey. Yet there are enough thoughtful touches and character choices throughout to make this version stand apart from previous productions.
Among the highlights are Samuel Morgan-Grahame and Mairi Ikegami as Baron and Baroness Bomburst. Their comic scenes repeatedly steal the show, with Ikegami in particular delivering every exaggerated gesture and line with impeccable timing. It is a performance that consistently draws laughter and leaves you wanting more.
Christian Edwards brings warmth and a lovely vocal performance to Caractacus Potts, gradually revealing the character’s softer side as the story unfolds. Alongside him, Lydia Louise makes a confident and charming professional debut as Truly Scrumptious. Her chemistry with Edwards feels natural, while the growing affection between the pair and the children develops convincingly throughout the evening.
Playing Jemima and Jeremy at this performance, Auora Breslin and Francis Adams are both excellent. They bring energy, confidence and sincerity to the roles, with a particularly believable sibling dynamic that grounds much of the story’s emotional core.
Sam Pay and Alexander Zane are tremendous fun as Boris and Goran, providing some of the evening’s biggest laughs. Special credit must go to Zane, who expertly entertained the audience during an unexpected technical delay before Chitty’s reveal. Remaining completely in character, he improvised with remarkable wit and ease, turning a potentially awkward interruption into one of the most memorable moments of the evening.
Another standout feature is the actor-musician approach. The cast perform the score live throughout, moving seamlessly between instruments and characters while delivering beloved songs including “Hushabye Mountain”, “Truly Scrumptious” and the title number. It is an impressive achievement that adds an extra layer of energy and connection to the production.
For those who know and love Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, there is plenty here to rekindle childhood memories. For younger audiences discovering it for the first time, this production offers all the adventure, humour and magic they could hope for. The Watermill has taken a cherished British classic and reimagined it with creativity, warmth and confidence, creating one of the most enjoyable family productions of the summer.