REVIEW: Limelight Theatricals take Chitty Chitty Bang Bang up a gear in Thurles

Limelight Theatricals once again showcased the sheer level of young talent on offer in Thurles and the surrounding areas with a magnificent four-night run of the much-loved classic; Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Founded in 2023, Limelight’s third summer production, after Fame in 2023 and The Addams Family in 2024, was perhaps its most colourful and carefully crafted to date.

Based on the beloved 1968 film version of Ian Fleming’s children’s book, and featuring an unforgettable score by the Sherman Brothers (Mary Poppins), Chitty Chitty Bang Bang follows the weird and wonderful story of Caractacus Potts who sets about restoring an old race car from a scrap heap with the help of his children, Jeremy and Jemima.

READ NEXT: Tipperary actor set to star in new Netflix adaptation of literary classic

They soon discover the car has magical properties, including the ability to float and take flight. Trouble occurs when the evil Baron Bomburst desires the magic car for himself. The family joins forces with Truly Scrumptious and Grandpa Potts to outwit the dastardly Baron and Baroness and their villainous henchman, the Child Catcher.

Standout performances were in abundance across the week at the Source Arts Centre, with audiences marvelling at the vocal ability, acting chops, and sensational choreography on display from a strong cast of youngsters.

Rory Fyler put in a performance well beyond his years as Caractacus Potts, with many remarking upon his on-stage chemistry with his two children Jemima and Jeremy, played by Leah Dunne and Seán O’Leary respectively.

Rebecca Costello commanded her voice and the stage in equal measure as the bright and bubbly Truly Scrumptious. That foursome were at the forefront of all the scenes involving Chitty itself, which delighted crowds with its shapeshifting wheels, stubborn headlights, and busy assortment of sound effects.

Limelight’s production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was as hilarious as it was impressive, with many of the lead roles boasting comedic timing that some professional actors and comics spend a lifetime searching for.

Kevin Ryan was perfect as the loveable Grandpa Potts, while Jack Meaney and Katelyn Barry had audiences in stitches as Baron and Baroness Bombhurst. Heber Nesbitt and Ewan Connors left no stone unturned as the comedy duo of Boris and Goran. Their wacky double-act, fuelled by impeccable accent work and priceless costume changes was a joy to watch.

Perhaps one of the most impressive things about this production of Chitty was the level of engagement and aptitude on display from a 50 strong cast of kids. Toot Sweets, Roses of Success, and Bombie Samba stood out as moments of first-rate ensemble work and group choreography that left viewers struggling to know where to look.

It was here where the likes of Cormac Sheehy, Kolby Colleton, and Eimear Teehan could not be missed, with experience and confidence in full display.

Everyone from the long list of principals right to the more background figures looked mesmerised by the world of Chitty. The production felt lively, busy, and unpredictable from start to finish, and was a credit to director Seán McInerney, choreographer Therese Maher, chorus mistress Muireann Slattery, and all involved in the sound, lighting, and set departments.

If Limelight’s raison d'être is to inspire and empower young performers, and promote creativity, expression, and personal growth, then Chitty Chitty Bang Bang was a resounding success.

The founder and one of the creative forces behind Limelight Theatricals, Therese Maher, told the Tipperary Star how thrilled she was by yet another successful summer production.

“We’re absolutely delighted with the response to this year’s show. The cast have worked incredibly hard, and with only six weeks rehearsals, have produced something we’re so very proud of.

“Now in its third year, Limelight boasts a 50 strong cast, as well as a brilliant support team of young stage crew, parents, and sponsors. We have big plans for the group, hoping to expand the range of what we offer to the 14-19 year olds in the area. Plenty of plans in the pipeline, so keep an eye on our socials.

“Our ethos is creating a kind and all inclusive space for people to be able to freely express themselves creatively. We encourage anyone who has an interest in any aspect of the arts to reach out to us.”

Keep an eye out for next week’s edition of the Tipperary Star where Therese Maher will be talking about the future of Limelight as they enter year #4, and their upcoming move to their new studios in Thurles.

READ NEXT: Busy road in the heart of Thurles town to undergo major maintenance work this week