‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’, the most fantasmagorical stage musical in the history of everything, flies into Sydney’s Capitol Theatre from Friday, November 16.
You’ll believe a car can fly in this stage adaptation of ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’, which features sensational sets, stunning special effects, an irresistible story and memorable classic numbers such as ‘Truly Scrumptious’, ‘Toot Sweets’, ‘Hushabye Mountain’ and, of course, its Oscar nominated song ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’.
All these ingredients add up to a West End and Broadway blockbuster the whole family will love. Based on the timeless novel by Ian Fleming, author and creator of the ‘James Bond’ franchise, the production features music and lyrics by the legendary Sherman brothers, composers of ‘Mary Poppins’, with original script and fresh adaptation directed by Ray Roderick. Originally written by Ian Fleming for his son, the much-loved 1968 film ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ staring Dick Van Dyke and Sally Ann Howes was part of everyone’s childhood.
The movie began life as a personal dream of ‘James Bond’ producer, Albert R. ‘Cubby’ Broccoli. As with many of his film projects, ‘Cubby’ Broccoli surrounded himself with the very best British talent available to ensure the success of ‘Chitty’, which at the time was publicised as the largest and most expensive musical ever filmed in England.
The director, Ken Hughes, who had also adapted the screenplay with prolific children’s author Roald Dahl, led the British film crew.
The Sherman brothers, fresh from major success with the Disney Studios, provided the score and songs, earning an Oscar nomination in the process.
The late 1960s film was about a hapless inventor (Van Dyke) finally finding success with a flying car, before a dictator from a foreign government sets out to take for himself. The film was a box office hit and will be one that will be watched for many future generations to come, just like other musical classics of that era such as ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘Mary Poppins’ and ‘Grease’. The ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ stage production opened at the London Palladium to rave reviews back in April 2002.
The London production was nominated for three Laurence Olivier Awards in 2003, including Best New Musical. It won Best Musical at the Variety Club Awards in 2003. ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ broke every box office record and continues as the longest running musical ever to play at the London Palladium, beating ‘Oliver!’ and ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.’
During its three and a half year run, the family musical exceeded £70 million in box office revenue. The ‘Chitty’ stage car holds the Guinness World Record for being the most expensive prop in the history of British Theatre.
The fantastic adventures of this out-of-the-ordinary car that flies through the air and sails the seas, will reach a new generation of fans through this enthralling and enchanting stage musical.
‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’ premieres at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney on Friday, November 16. Tickets start at $69.60 and are on sale now. To book or for more information call Ticketmaster on 1300 723 038 or visit www.ticketmaster.com.au.
