A magical flying adventure is headed to Clacton this spring as the Princes Theatre prepares to bring the much‑loved family classic Chitty Chitty Bang Bang to the stage.

Running from 9 to 12 April, the Princes Youth Theatre will light up the Tendring District Council‑run venue with a spectacular production of the iconic musical, showcasing an authentic, fully engineered ‘flying’ Chitty car.

Celebrated by both critics and theatregoers for its exquisite detail and impressive mechanics, the iconic car spreads its wings, lifts gracefully into the air, and truly becomes one of the stars of the show.

Based on the 1968 film adaptation of Ian Fleming’s children’s book, and featuring a timeless score by the legendary Sherman Brothers, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang remains one of the world’s most treasured family musicals.

Audiences can expect a heartwarming, high‑flying adventure as eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts restores a scrapped race car with the help of his children Jeremy and Jemima, only to discover it possesses magical powers – from floating on water to soaring above the clouds.

Their journey soon entangles them with the evil Baron Bomburst, bringing together a colourful cast of characters including Truly Scrumptious and the ever‑entertaining Grandpa Potts.

The production will feature cherished musical numbers such as ‘Toot Sweets’, ‘Hushabye Mountain’, ‘Me Ol’ Bam-Boo’, and the universally adored title song ‘Chitty Chitty Bang Bang’, all brought to life by a talented young ensemble supported by a professional creative team.

Councillor Gary Scott, Tendring District Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Culture and Heritage, encouraged the community to support the youth theatre.

“Residents across our district have so many talented young people to be proud of, and it’s fantastic to see them coming together for this brilliant production,” he said.

“Our council-run theatre gives local families real opportunities to get involved — whether that’s children performing on stage or grandparents enjoying a special night out supporting them.

“We are incredibly fortunate to have a dedicated team at our venue who work passionately to nurture creativity and raise aspirations across our community.

“Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will be a wonderful celebration of that community spirit, and I’d encourage residents to join us, back our young performers, and enjoy the magic they bring to the stage.”

Tickets for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, which runs from 9 to 12 April, are on sale now via the Princes Theatre website at www.princestheatre.co.uk or through the Box Office on 01255 686633.