CYT-NI presents 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'

CYT-North Idaho is in final preparations for its spring production, "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," opening at the Salvation Army Kroc Community Theater (1765 W. Golf Course Road, Coeur d'Alene) on May 15. The full-scale musical runs May 15-24.

Adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams, based on the MGM Motion picture with music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman, licensed script adaption by Ray Roderick.

Come meet eccentric inventor Caractacus Potts and his two children, Jeremy and Jemima as they restore a legendary race car back to life. With the help of their grandfather and the lovely Truly Scrumptious, they defeat the child-hating Baron and Baroness of Vulgaria, and display the true meaning of family.

This large-scale production is as collaborative as theater comes. Eighty-one students have been rehearsing for the production, 26 student crew members will work the technical aspects of the production, all overseen by a part-time staff and a creative team of four. The more than 60 cast families have done everything from building costumes, creating wacky inventions, to constructing sets.

One family in particular has a special connection to this production of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang." Dennis Miller, enjoyed watching his grandchildren's involvement with CYT-North Idaho's productions. Sam and Annie Cuentas, cast in "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," were anxious to share another show with their grandfather. Unfortunately, Mr. Miller passed away April 1 and his desire to see his grandkids in action was cut short. Prior to his death, Mr. Miller was asked if he wanted to donate to a charity or church; lucky for CYT-North Idaho, Mr. Miller chose to donate to CYT-North Idaho, specifically to getting the show's namesake to Coeur d'Alene.

Thanks to Mr. Miller's donation, CYT-North Idaho's production of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" has a fully operational, magical car to spring the story to life. You don't want to miss this classic film brought to life on our local stage, by local children!

Tickets are now on sale at the CYT-North Idaho website: www.cytnorthidaho.org or by calling the box office at (208) 277-5727.

Showtimes are May 15-16 and 22-23 at 7 p.m., and May 16*, 17, and 23-24 at 3 p.m.

Tickets range in price from $9-$15. The (*) indicates a discount family matinee where all tickets are $9. Group rates are also available, as well as a discount for our patrons who serve, or who have served in the military.