“A heartwarming and colourful fantasy.” (Seen & Heard International)
“Ola Salo had tremendous stage presence as Willy Wonka.” (Seen & Heard International)
“Some of the highlights of this fantastical production are the ensemble scenes.” (Seen & Heard International)
“The direction and choreography are impressive.” (Seen & Heard International)
“Michael England’s conducting skillfully reflected Wonka’s manic energy but was also sensitive to the more reflective moments.” (Seen & Heard International)
“Outstanding.” (Broadway World)
“Ola Salo plays Willy Wonka, a role that fits him like a glove.” (Broadway World)
“Entertaining family musical.” (Broadway World)
“Fantastic scenography and lighting.” (Broadway World)
Poor, kind-hearted, sweet-toothed Charlie grows up near Wonka’s mysterious, mythical chocolate factory. When Wonka announces that he has hidden five golden tickets in five chocolate bars, Charlie is one of the lucky children to win a visit to the factory. But what happens inside the factory proves less sweet than anticipated. The other families visiting are spoilt and demanding, and Wonka’s helpful Oompa-Loompas have trouble keeping them in check. The visit turns into a wonderful and scary journey, where the greedy characters get their just desserts along the winding, sugary route. The wonders of the chocolate factory are conjured up in the imagination and are only visible to those who believe in them.
For some of the performances, Willy Wonka will be performed by the musical artist Tobias Ahlsell (see dates below). The musical director is West End conductor Michael England, and the stage director is musical theatre veteran Mattias Carlsson. In collaboration with set designer Lucy Osborne and others, they create a warm, welcoming, modern world filled with nostalgia, a few scary surprises, whimsical confectionary landscapes and oodles of chocolate.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is mainly targeted at an adult audience, but is also suitable for families with children.
Presented by arrangement with Music Theatre International.
