PREPARE to hit the theatrical high roads as the Echo can exclusively reveal that Chitty, Chitty, Bang, Bang will return to Southampton next year!

The tour will start at the Mayflower Theatre next February and tickets go on sale next Friday, May 1.

Music & Lyrics Limited and West Yorkshire Playhouse present this exciting new production of one of the world’s favourite musicals.

The UK & Ireland Tour opens at Mayflower Theatre from February 10-21, 2016 following a Christmas season at West Yorkshire Playhouse, Leeds. Casting is yet to be announced.

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang has music and lyrics by Richard M Sherman and Robert B Sherman, who were also responsible for Mary Poppins, The Slipper and the Rose, The Aristocats and The Jungle Book.

The Sherman Brothers have won two Academy Awards with a further nine nominations, two Grammy Awards and they have received 21 gold and platinum albums.

The production will be directed by West Yorkshire Playhouse Artistic Director James Brining, with new choreography by Stephen Mear and production design by Simon Higlett.

James Brining said, “Directing such an iconic show is a great opportunity, a thrilling challenge for any director. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is a brilliant adventure story, filled with classic songs and scenes that hold so many memories for so many people. I cannot wait to bring the show not only to Leeds but also to audiences across the UK and Ireland.”

  • Tickets for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang are on sale on Friday 1 May 2015 from Mayflower Theatre Box Office tel: 02380 711811 or online at mayflower.org.uk.

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