(Chelsea Update would like to thank the Chelsea Area Players for the information and photo in this story.)
Alisa Bauer has been on stage for nearly all of her life, since her first role as the Baby Jesus when she was 4 months old.
Bauer has delighted local audiences with her graceful dancing and her sweet soprano voice, and now she portrays Truly Scrumptious, the beautiful candy maker, in “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” presented by Chelsea Area Players (CAP) July 17-19.
She has always enjoyed the film. “I fell in love with the music,” said Bauer. “It’s all wonderful – from the fun, catchy tunes to the beautiful ballads.”
Bauer said that she admired the pretty dresses in the classic movie (with Dick Van Dyke and Sally Ann Howes) and is looking forward to seeing what the show’s costumer, Kevin Leistner, puts together for this production.
Bauer believes the audience will find plenty to smile about. “It’s a humorous show,” Bauer said. From funny one-liners to physical comedy, “Chitty” has it all.
A 27-year Chelsea resident, Bauer works at Vogel’s and Foster’s on Main Street, sings at St. Joseph Church in Dexter, and is married with three children.
She is also part of the eclectic musical group, From Grace. The group will be performing on Aug. 8 at Terry B.’s in Dexter, and on Aug. 13 in Chelsea at Sounds and Sights.
“Chitty” was originally created by Ian Fleming as a children’s adventure story, published in 1964. Roald Dahl wrote the screenplay for MGM’s 1968 film; the Sherman Brothers (of “Mary Poppins” fame) wrote the music.
The stage version of “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” tells the story of Caractacus Potts, an eccentric inventor who rescues an old car from being melted into iron. With his engineering skills, he transforms it into an operational vehicle. When the Baron of Vulgaria attempts to steal it, Potts and his two children, along with their lovely friend Truly, discover that the car magically flies and floats.
The show runs July 17 and 18 at 7:30 p.m. and July 19 at 2 p.m. at the Chelsea High School Performing Arts Center, 740 North Freer Road.
Advance tickets are available for $12 at Chelsea Pharmacy, 1125 South Main St. or online here. Tickets may also be purchased at the door for $15.
