Classic Musical Hits the Brighton Theatre Scene with a Bang!
Brighton Theatre Group’s production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang has arrived at the Theatre Royal Brighton with all the magic, energy and nostalgia audiences could wish for. The production runs from Wednesday 12th - Sunday 16th August 2026.
From the moment the curtain rises, this “fantasmorgorical” family musical delivers a joyful, high-energy spectacle packed with vibrant local talent, a superb live orchestra and, of course, a genuinely breathtaking flying car. The result is a feel-good production that had the packed house captivated from beginning to end.
A Charming Cast
At the heart of the production is Carl Lovejoy as ‘Caractacus Potts’, who brings immense charm, eccentricity and warmth to the much-loved inventor. His performance perfectly captures the character’s larger-than-life personality while retaining the tenderness at the heart of the story.
Kiarnie Camp as ‘Truly Scrumptious’ is equally captivating. With beautiful poise, innocence and a wonderful singing voice, she makes Truly an instantly engaging presence on stage.
The production’s young stars, Aaryan Willmott and Georgia Burns as ‘Jeremy and Jemima Potts’, are a particular delight. Perfectly cast as Caractacus’s adored children, the pair quickly won over the audience with their confident performances, immaculate singing and dancing, and their touching admiration for their slightly “potty” father.
The wider ensemble brings an infectious energy to the production. Tight, exuberant choreography makes large-scale numbers such as “Me Ol’ Bamboo” a particular highlight, filling the stage with movement and colour.
The young ensemble also deserves special praise. Performing with confidence, enthusiasm and obvious joy, the children add an extra layer of warmth and energy to the production.
The Magic of the Staging
Naturally, the true star of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is the car itself and this production’s Chitty absolutely lives up to expectations.
When the iconic vehicle finally rolls onto the stage and takes flight, it receives arguably the loudest and most ecstatic applause of the evening. It is a spectacular theatrical moment and one that had the audience visibly thrilled.
The music, performed with the support of a superb live orchestra, is another major strength. The timeless Sherman Brothers songs fill the historic Theatre Royal with nostalgia, warmth and plenty of opportunities for the audience to sing along.
And sing along they certainly did. By the time the title track arrived, the entire theatre was clapping along, creating a wonderfully uplifting sense of community that is exactly what live theatre does best.
There was even time for some four-legged stars to make their mark. Marco as ‘Edison’ was a pawsome addition to the performance, demonstrating an impressive stage presence and impeccable timing as he appeared on cue.
A Magical Night at the Theatre
With its talented cast, energetic ensemble, spectacular staging, glorious live music and plenty of heart, Brighton Theatre Group’s Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a thoroughly entertaining night out for audiences of all ages.
Whether you remember the original film fondly or are discovering the story for the first time, this production delivers plenty of laughter, nostalgia and theatrical magic and, naturally, one unforgettable flying car.
Thank you to Theatre Royal Brighton / ATG for providing us with complimentary tickets in exchange for our honest review.
