Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical
The world of Willy Wonka comes to life in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical, which opened at His Majesty’s Theater in Aberdeen.
The production, based on Roald Dahl’s beloved novel, reimagines the hit West End and Broadway versions, bringing together elements from each while including memorable songs from the 1971 film starring Gene Wilder.
It tells the story of young Charlie Bucket who lives in the town where Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory is located.
It has been closed to the public for many years but it still manages to produce some weird and wonderful treats.
Wonka then launches a contest where five lucky winners who find golden tickets in his chocolate bars will receive a tour of the factory.
Charlie’s luck is here and he and his grandpa Joe along with four other spoiled, greedy youngsters and their parents enter the world of Wonka.
The musical is led by an impressive young cast led by Isaac Sugden who played Charlie in the performance which was viewed. Three other youngsters – Amelia Minto, Kayleen Nguema and Noah Walton – also take on the lead role throughout the tour.
The first act spotlights Charlie and his dreams of visiting the factory and the other kids as they find their golden tickets.
The actors get a chance to show off their singing and dancing skills, each having their moment to shine.
They are rounded out by the rest of the cast who are all caught up in the frenzy created by Wonka.
Gareth Snook is cast as the eccentric factory owner and upon his first entry, he steals the show with a performance he makes his own rather than emulating others who have portrayed the role before.
As he guides visitors and the public through his fantastic factory, it is brought to life by the production’s wildly imaginative sets, complete with striking visual design, special effects and lighting that immerse everyone. world in Wonka’s world.
Of course, his spoiled young visitors begin to disappear from the tour and the Oompa Loompas are introduced who are given a unique look taking on a rather menacing robotic form.
Songs created for the musical and taken from the classic film are performed superbly, including A Letter from Charlie Bucket, The Candy Man, The View From Here and the famous Pure Imagination.
The performers are accompanied by an impressive orchestra which adds to and completes the visual spectacle.
The production also has a lot of humor that appealed to children and adults alike.
As a magical journey is taken through the heavens that must be believed to be seen, it is clear that the exceptional spectacle turns out to be the golden ticket.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical will run at His Majesty’s Theater in Aberdeen until Sunday 26 March. Visit www.aberdeenperformingarts.com for tickets.