Newbury’s acclaimed Watermill Theatre has officially announced the cast for its highly anticipated summer musical, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Running from Tuesday 26 May to Sunday 13 September 2026, the production promises to be the theatre's most ambitious undertaking yet, following the award-winning success of Jesus Christ Superstar.
Leading the audacious adventure as the eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts is Christian Edwards, a familiar face to Watermill audiences. Joining him is Lydia Louise, making an exciting professional debut in the role of Truly Scrumptious. The production also features stage veteran Mark Curry as Grandpa Potts, while Susannah van den Berg takes on the sinister role of The Childcatcher.
The ensemble is packed with talent, including Samuel Morgan-Grahame and Mairi Ikegami as Baron and Baroness Bomburst. In a testament to the theatre's commitment to new talent, the production features five recent graduates among the ensemble, alongside a rotating cast of local young performers playing Jeremy, Jemima, and the Children of Vulgaria.
Artistic Director Paul Hart, who also directs the production, revealed that the show will utilize the Watermill’s entire site. "The back lawn will become a fairground where ‘Me Ol’ Bamboo’ will take place in a tent outside," Hart shared, adding that the designs for the iconic flying car are "absolutely incredible."
The creative team, led by designer Katie Lias and musical supervisor Stuart Morley, will bring the Sherman Brothers' classic score to life with live instrumentation. Fans can expect fresh arrangements of beloved hits like “Hushabye Mountain” and the titular “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.”
With a national press night scheduled for Thursday 4 June, tickets are expected to sell fast following three consecutive years of sold-out summer runs.
Dates: 26 May – 13 September 2026
Tickets: Book online at watermill.org.uk or via the Box Office at 01635 46044.
