The popular story immortalized by Dick Van Dyke’s 1968 movie will be introduced to a new generation as the Uwharrie Players are set to bring “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” to stage at the Stanly County Agri-Civic Center.
Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. on July 26, July 27, Aug. 2 and Aug. 3 and at 3:00 p.m. on July 28 and August 4. Tickets can be found at Starnes Jewelers and at Second Street Sundries in downtown Albemarle as well as at First Bank locations in both Albemarle and Locust. Tickets are also available online at www.uwharrieplayers.org.
The story is based on a novel about a magical car written by Ian Fleming, the writer of the famous James Bond series. The Uwharrie Players, knowing the importance of the car to the impact of the story, had a vehicle imported all the way from Ontario, Canada, that “will hold everyone’s attention during the show” and will “be a treat for young and old alike.”
Organizers say Wadesboro’s veteran actor and director, Gina Clarke, did “a wonderful job in casting the show with stage veterans and newcomers.” They also said musical director Laurie Klaus and choreographer Wendy Dalyrmple “masterfully coordinated a talented vocal and dancing ensemble that will entertain the audience from the first to the last notes.”
Members of the community who want to get some extra time with the cast can attend a pre-matinee event before the Sunday afternoon shows. At 1 p.m. there will be a “Picnic with the Potts Family” that will make the “Potts family” available for questions and pictures. The event requires pre-registration by the Wednesday of that week’s Sunday appearance, and the cost is $10 per person. To pre-register, email organizers at [email protected] or reach out via their Facebook page.