‘Chitty’, one of only two cars in the UK, arrived at the Riverside Theatre last week, ahead of tonight’s premiere. The car itself was sourced by a crew member from Blue Chilli Flying, A Theatrical Performer & Scenic Flying Effects company based in mainland UK. The car itself is unique as it drives and actually ‘flies’ throughout the show.
Brian Logan, Director of Ballywillian Drama group who celebrates his 50th year said ” It is amazing to see the car here. I was very emotional when the car arrived. All of those months ago when we planned the show, I just dreamt of the day when Chitty would be with us. This car will be driven and flown on stage starting this evening by Caractacus Potts.”
Ballywillan is one of the first companies in the UK and Ireland to bring everyone’s favourite family musical to the stage. In a major coup for Ballywillan and the Riverside, the theatre will play host to eighteen Fantasmagorical performances of this truly special magical experience. Featuring a cast of leading musical theatre stars to head the company as they tell the story of Caractacus Potts, his children, Jeremy and Jemima, a restored old race-car and their adventures. The musical features brand new costumes, a superb signature set and the undoubted star of the show – the magical car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.
MLA Maurice Bradley has wished the local drama group well for their forthcoming production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang: ”
Ballywillan Drama Group will be one of the first companies in the UK to bring this show to the stage, areal feather in the cap for the organisers. “I wish the performers, backstage team and the whole production well for the run of shows at the Riverside.
“Of course it is a major coup to have one of only two replica cars on the stage for the show. I have already heard of the excitement in the theatre when the car arrived. “I know that seats are selling fast so I would urge anyone thinking of attending to get in touch with the box office as soon as possible. As they say in the theatre ‘break a leg’. ”
Tickets can be purchased from the Riverside Box Office.
