CHITTY Chitty Bang Bang is landing at the Pavilion Theatre in Bournemouth for the first time this August, to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the release of the popular musical film.

Based on the much-loved 1968 film version of Ian Fleming's children's book, the story follows the fortunes of the eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts, who sets about restoring an old race car from a scrap heap with the help of his children, Jeremy and Jemima.

"Having never been performed in Bournemouth before, we can't wait for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to come to the Pavilion", says Steve Turner, divisional general manager of BH Live. "It's a thrilling tale with lots of drama and high energy toe tapping song and dance numbers right from beginning to end.”

The show sees both a new and a longstanding member of Bournemouth and Boscombe Light Opera Company (BBLOC) filling the two principal roles.

Rob Dorey who joined in 2017, plays the eccentric inventor, Caractacus Potts. “I’m honoured to be part of this family classic which I remember so fondly from my childhood”, he says. “Caractacus is a role I’ve always wanted to play!”

Taking the reins once again are director Helen Barrington, choreographer Carly Simmerling and musical director Ian Peters.

Helen said: “They say never work with children, animals or flying cars - and in this production, we’re working with all three. Are we mad?! It’s a real challenge to bring this iconic musical to life, but one our talented cast are more than capable of achieving.”

The all-important job of making sure the iconic car flies seamlessly every show falls to producer Emma Wogan, who also plays Baroness Bomburst. “It’s going to be a tough job but I can’t wait to see the audience’s faces as ‘she’ takes off on opening night!”

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang runs for ten performances (August 29 to September 2). Tickets (£20.50 – £22.50 with concessions and family tickets available) are on sale at the bhlivetickets box office, 0844 576 3000 or online at ChittyMusical.co.uk