By LeAnna Hamblin
CenterPoint Legacy Theatre in Centerville, Utah brings the classic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to their main stage, complete with the famous flying car. What do two little kids, a baron, and a pair of spies all have in common? Zey vant ze car! With music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, the stage production is adapted from the film, originally released in 1968, and is a favorite of thousands of people all over the world. Adapted for the stage in 2002 by writer Jeremy Sams, the magical show came to the stage first in London and then to Broadway in 2005.
Longtime director Jansen Davis displays a parade of childhood dreams as he brings to life the vibrant imaginations of two young children, Jemima (Abigail Bennett/Kaylee Call)and Jeremy (Colby Thornton/Preston Spencer). As Jemima and Jeremy rely on each other for companionship and entertainment, their daily antics bring to life a world all their own. Their father, Caractacus Potts, played by David Simon (Ryan Zaugg),plays along and makes their dreams come true by allowing the kids to learn that if they want something badly enough, like an old heap of junk metal to be a racecar, then all they have to do is believe that anything is possible. Simon, Bennett, and Thornton are the centrifugal point of a very talented cast. The fatherly inclinations Simon has toward Bennett and Thornton is authentic and can be felt throughout the performance, especially during the musical number “Hushabye Mountain” where Simon’s exquisite tenor voice clearly portrays the caring emotion a father should naturally feel for his children.
Shanda Christiansen (Alisa Woodbrey) does an outstanding job in the role of Truly Scrumptious. Her wit and spunk are just the right match to Simon’s calm demeanor. Her portrayal of Truly emphasizes the independence of the character and helps the audience to feel how strong a woman Truly is. She is ambitious and full of drive, especially when it comes to her motorbike. Truly does not need to be saved, but at the same time, she desires to be a part of something more meaningful than her father’s candy business. She finds that meaningful connection with Jemima and Jeremy and knows that it won’t be long before the connection is made with their father as well. Christiansen’s performance of “Truly Scrumptious” is delectable and her connection to Bennett and Thornton is magical.
Along with the beautiful relationships the audience witnesses being formed throughout the show, one of the stand-out duos is Boris, played by Matthew Page (Clark Bullen), and Goren, played by Tyson Jensen (Kannon Servoss), the Vulgarian spies sent on a mission to capture the fastest car in all of England. This comedic pair plays off each other without overshadowing the others onstage. Their antics are well-timed and bring a sense of old theater to the stage, especially during their number “Act English.”
Matt Stokes (Mark Gurney),who plays Baron Bomburst and Lord Scrumptious, and Kim Allen Tolman (Jessica Love), who plays Baroness Bomburst, are hilarious together, to the point that they had me laughing with tears. Their interactions are typical of a married couple who loves to be together but can also be annoyed by one another. This is especially apparent during the lovey-dovey number “Chu-Chi Face” and also during the Baron’s birthday party scene, where he lets his inner child come out.
Jared Knowlton (Chris Kennedy) plays The Toymaker so kindly and serenely. He is always on the lookout to keep the hidden children of Vulgaria safe and only wants what is best for them. Knowlton is a quiet presence onstage but is a necessary addition to the cast, especially as he plays opposite The Childcatcher, played by Trevor Hansen (Jake Law). Hansen’s portrayal of every child’s worst nightmare feels very natural for him, although in person, I’m sure that Hansen is a very pleasant person. The Childcatcher is one of the most memorable characters from this show and Hansen’s portrayal will not be quickly forgotten by any who are lucky enough to witness it.
Having once been on the production side of Chitty, my favorite character has always been Grandpa Potts. Chad Wilkinson (David Nielsen) brings the same caring and concern to the role that audiences have come to love. Wilkinson and Simon have a love and respect for one another and their ultimate goal to make the children safe and happy is apparent. Grandpa Potts is a quirky adventurer who unexpectedly goes on the adventure of a lifetime. Wilkinson carries that sense of adventure with him throughout the performance. He is not intimidated by what is happening around him but chooses to jump in and take part in the chaos. Once things have settled, he is off on his next great adventure.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a show full of imagination and that is what Set Designer and Executive Producer Scott Van Dyke wants the audience to feel. The set is simple yet intricate, from the multi-level kids’ bed to the sewer pipes used for surprising entrances. The breakfast making machine is cleverly designed with great attention to detail. Technical Director Derek Walden shows his experience and expertise in this field with the creation of the true star of the show, Chitty. The car is well crafted and the bells and whistles that come with a flying car are functioning and add another level of entertainment to the show.
Music Director Derek Myler and Choreographer Bailee DeYoung have showcased the natural talent of the cast. The ensemble voices are well blended and the harmonies and timing are fine-tuned, especially in the more difficult numbers like the opening number and “The Roses of Success.” The choreography is exciting and pleasing to the audience most notably in “Me Ol’ Bamboo” and “The Bombie Samba.” They truly show a sense of teamwork.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is the perfect way to experience live theatre with the whole family and CenterPoint Legacy Theatre in Centerville, Utah is the perfect place to share this magical show with anyone who loves the adventure of childhood. So, step back into a simpler time where your cares can be whisked away and let your imagination go on a fantasmigorical adventure. This show is double cast with a Monday/Wednesday/Friday cast and Tuesday/Thursday/Saturday cast.
CenterPoint Legacy Theatre presents Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Music and Lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams.
CenterPoint Legacy Theatre, 525 N 400 W, Centerville, Utah 84014
March 15-April 13, 2019 7:30 PM, Monday-Saturday, Matinee Performances, Saturdays 2:30 PM, ASL Performance, Saturday, March 23, 2019 2:30
Tickets: $17.75-$28.25, tickets@centerpointtheatre.org
Contact: 801-298-1302
CenterPoint Legacy Theatre Facebook Page
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