Complete with a flying car, this version of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang at King’s Theatre Portsmouth is a fantastic family classic bought to the stage. Jack Edwards directs this wonderful community based production with all the “razzle dazzle” of a huge West End budget production.
Paul Clements plays the lead role of Caractacus Potts, the eccentric inventor who is bringing up his two children, Jemima Potts (Logan Briant) Jeremy Potts (Daniel Deboo) as a single parent after the death of his wife.
That is until he meets Stephanie Aves in the role of Truly Scrumptious, who is having mechanical issues with her bike and side car.
Shaun Williamson doubles as the Toymaker and Mr. Scrumptious, the sweet factory owner. At the end of the performance, it was announced that Williamson has agreed to be the first patron for the newly amalgamation of Portsmouth two Theatre’s and he was presented with his own dressing room Plaque.
John Bettesworth as the Baron Bomburst and his wife Baroness Bomburst (Andee Jordan) add a touch of glitz and entertainment to the production with some fantastic costume choices from head of wardrobe Jacqueline Willis.
The highlight of the night for me was the Vulgarian Spies played by Curtis McLennan and Ben Irish. They appeared all around the theatre as they tried to track down the infamous retired race car. The duo have a great stage rapport and, at times, over exaggerate their “dodgy” accent. They raised quite a few laughs as they attempted to use their broken English to understand what Englishness is.
Along with the live orchestra in the pit, it really is a very good all-around musical production of the family classic. One thing was clear from last night’s performance, everyone involved was thoroughly enjoying themselves.
For more information about Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and future productions at The King’s Theatre Portsmouth, please use the link below. Check out my ticket link if you fancy catching the show before April 19th, 2026.
Four Stars.
Theatre, Art and Film Reviews 
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