Variety confirms earlier speculations that Esparza will portray dad Caractacus Potts in the upcoming musical at the Ford Center for the Performing Arts. Although no other casting has been officially announced, actors' spokespersons have told Playbill On-Line that Erin Dilly has been cast as Truly Scrumptious and Jan Maxwell as Baroness Bomburst. PBOL has also learned that the Broadway company may also include Marc Kudisch, Robert Sella and Chip Zien.

The musical, which is currently playing in London, is set to begin previews at the Ford Center March 27, 2005, with an official opening scheduled for April 28, 2005. Based on Ian Fleming's novel and the film of the same name, Chitty features music and lyrics by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman. Song titles include "Truly Scrumptious," "Toot Sweets," "Hushabye Mountain" and the Oscar nominated title song "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang."

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will feature direction by Adrian Noble, musical staging by Gillian Lynne, sets and costumes by Anthony Ward, lighting by Mark Henderson and sound design by Andrew Bruce.

The Ford Center for the Performing Arts is located in Manhattan at 213 West 42nd Street. Beginning Nov. 21, those interested will be able to purchase tickets to the new musical by calling Ticketmaster (212) 307-4100.