A Truly Scrumptious Triumph for MKAOS – MK Community Hub

Producing and directing a musical of this scale is no small undertaking. A show such as Chitty Chitty Bang Bang demands vision, organisation, creativity, and an enormous amount of dedication. Every element, staging, scenery, lighting, sound, choreography, costumes, projections, music, and, of course, the cast must work seamlessly together to create something magical. Under the direction of Michelle Hehtmankova, that magic was very much alive on stage.

Thirty-nine years ago, Michelle’s teacher suggested that MKAOS invite her to their Youth Theatre after recognising her talent at a school Christmas concert. That moment sparked a lifelong passion for theatre, helping transform a shy young girl into the confident performer, actor, and now director she is today. Although she may never have formally trained as a director, her years of experience and understanding of theatre were evident throughout this production. What I witnessed was a show crafted with care, professionalism, and genuine love for the art.

She was also supported by an outstanding creative team.

The set design and staging were hugely impressive and far more sophisticated than many would expect from local theatre. From the moment the overture began, accompanied by cleverly designed video projections showing the history of the famous car and its racing triumphs, the audience was drawn into the world of the show. Combined with atmospheric lighting and excellent sound design, the production immediately established a sense of wonder and excitement.

The scenery itself was simple, yet highly effective. Every backdrop, prop, and staging element helped transport the audience effortlessly from one scene to the next. But it was the props that gave it that extra special element. Whether it was the Toot Sweets machine, Truly’s bicycle, the Potts’ garage, Grandpa’s inventions, the toy shop, or the wonderfully sinister Child Catcher’s prison carriage, every detail had been carefully considered. And then, of course, there was Chitty herself - the flying car - which drew deserved gasps and applause from the audience. It was thrilling, nostalgic, and utterly enchanting.

A musical is only ever as strong as its orchestra, and too often musicians do not receive the recognition they deserve. Under the musical direction of Ed Jones, the band delivered a polished and thoroughly professional performance throughout. The score for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is intricate and demanding, yet the orchestra handled it superbly, providing the heartbeat of the entire production.

The choreography by Juliet Lennox was another major highlight. Well known throughout Milton Keynes theatre circles for her work with MKAOS and many other companies, she created energetic and imaginative routines that perfectly captured the spirit and charm of the original film. The cast executed every number with confidence, enthusiasm, and precision.

Producer Kevin Amies, alongside Steve Young and Martin Putman, completes a creative team whose years of dedication to local theatre clearly shine through in the quality of this production. Their expertise and commitment to MKAOS and the wider local theatre community should not go unnoticed.

The cast themselves were outstanding - committed, energetic, and consistently professional throughout.

An absolute shining star, James Down, as Caractacus Potts, led the company magnificently. His strong vocals, natural warmth, and engaging stage presence made him an ideal leading man, bringing both heart and charisma to the role, his acrobatics weren't half bad either! Alongside him, Ashlea Allsopp was beautifully cast as Truly Scrumptious. Her vocals were stunning, and she brought elegance, charm, and sincerity to every scene she appeared in.

It is always a pleasure to watch John Dowell perform, because you know you are in safe hands from the moment he steps onto the stage. A wonderfully accomplished actor with excellent comic timing, expressive physicality, and a commanding stage presence, he delivered a performance full of warmth and humour. At times, his resemblance in manner and characterisation to Lionel Jeffries was uncanny.

Special mention must also go to Michael Hutchinson and Stephen Johnson, whose performances as Boris and Goran provided some of the evening’s biggest laughs. Their chemistry together was superb, and their comic delivery was excellent throughout.

What stood out most, however, was the consistency across the entire company. There was no weak link. Every performer was fully committed, full of energy, and clearly giving their all. The children, in particular, were exceptional - many delivering performances with a confidence and professionalism that would not have looked out of place on a West End stage.

This was a brilliantly produced show, supported by an exceptional creative team and a hugely talented cast. MKAOS continues to demonstrate why it remains one of the leading amateur theatre companies in the region.

And now attention turns to their next production - the legendary MKAOS pantomime, which has built a reputation over many years for delivering spectacular, sell-out entertainment. This year they present The Snow Queen from 19th December to 3rd January. If history is anything to go by, tickets will disappear very quickly indeed  - so booking early is highly recommended.

Book online https://mkaos.co.uk/