The Princes Youth Theatre is celebrating a spectacular milestone after its Easter half term production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang became the highest attended show in its history — thrilling audiences and smashing attendance records.

Across four performances from 9 to 12 April, an incredible 2,506 tickets were sold, packing the Tendring District Council-run Princes Theatre with enthusiastic crowds and filling every show with an electric atmosphere of excitement and community spirit.

The support ensured the production covered all staging costs and secured the youth theatre’s ability to pay the licence for its next big show — set to be announced soon.

Audiences were swept away by high flying magic, dazzling choreography and heartfelt performances from an exceptionally talented young cast who brought the much loved story to life.

One of the biggest stars of the show was the car itself — a fully engineered Chitty stretching 4.5 metres.

It was so large that theatre crews had to remove doors just to manoeuvre it into the building. Once on stage, Chitty lit up, lifted and “flew” her way through the story, delighting every audience member.

The visual spectacle was amplified by more than 280 costumes, each carefully designed and changed at lightning speed by a dedicated backstage team and a phenomenally talented live orchestra.

From the colourful residents of Vulgaria to the vibrant sweets factory workers, the stage was alive with character, texture and imagination.

With a cast list predominantly coming from Tendring, it was clear to see just how much talent there is. Leading the cast were Albie Oxley as Caractacus Potts, Lucas Dew and Jessica Cox as Jeremy and Jemima, and Jess Burden as Truly Scrumptious.

They were joined by Lewis Hogg, Lily Norbury, Mars Senchell, Luke Roberts and Mateusz Kokot, supported by senior and junior dancers whose energy and commitment brought every scene to life.

Princes Theatre manager Kai Aberdeen said: “The scale, skill and spirit of this production has been nothing short of outstanding.

“From the flying car to the hundreds of handmade costumes, the attention to detail and commitment from everyone involved has been exceptional.

“We’re incredibly proud of these remarkable young performers — and audiences are already buzzing for what’s coming next.”

This year’s production also carried a deep emotional significance. As part of a special fundraiser, the company proudly ‘went pink’ in support of two much‑loved young members — Lexi and Mia — who are currently receiving treatment at Addenbrooke’s Hospital.

The Princes Theatre glowed with pink lighting, cast and crew added pink touches throughout, and Musical Director Neil Whitfield dyed his hair a bright shade of hot pink in a heartfelt display of solidarity.

Melissa Wenn, principal of the Princes Youth Theatre and Princes Acting Centre, said: “This has been our most ambitious and most successful production to date.

“The young performers poured everything into this show, and seeing them rewarded with record‑breaking audiences has been incredible.

“The community support has meant the world to us — especially during a year when our theatre family has faced so much.”

Further details about the Princes Youth Theatre's next major production will be announced soon.

‍