By Jeanni Ritchie
Pineville High Theatre brought a beloved classic to life with its production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, presented April 23–26. Filled with imagination, humor, and heart, the show captured the magic of the original story while showcasing the talent of its student performers.
Based on the story by Ian Fleming and made famous by the 1968 film, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang follows eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts and his children, Jemima and Jeremy, as they embark on a whimsical adventure involving a magical flying car, a faraway kingdom, and a battle of good versus delightfully over-the-top evil.
Leading the cast was Chason Hernandez as Caractacus Potts (recently seen in a star-making turn as Jafar in Pineville High’s Aladdin), joined by Chloe Lair and Cadence Lamoureux as Jemima and Jeremy. Together, they brought both warmth and energy to the stage, grounding the fantastical story in genuine family connection.
Keira Bowie was equally charming as Truly Scrumptious, delivering a performance that balanced sweetness with strength and stage presence.
Providing some of the biggest laughs of the night was Malise Lewis as Baron Bomhurst, who had the audience in stitches with each appearance. The comedic energy continued with Boris and Goran, played by Havha Stroderd and Hailey Birdlong, whose antics added an extra layer of fun to the production.
The strength of the show extended beyond the principal cast. The full ensemble contributed to the lively atmosphere, with the children’s ensemble proving especially endearing and full of personality.
From its imaginative storytelling to its spirited performances, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was a reminder of the joy that live theatre brings—especially when fueled by a cast clearly having as much fun on stage as the audience did watching it.
Even if the title song was stuck in my head for days afterward!
