Willy Wonka Junior
Words and Music by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley
Adapted for the Stage by Leslie Bricusse and Timothy A McDonald|
Based on the book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
Directed by Trevin McLaughlin
Music Direction by Kathryn O’Neil
Produced by Artisan Center Theater
Reviewed by Natalie Shaw
"Oh, I've got a golden ticket! I've got a golden twinkle in my eye!" As a kid, I adored Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, and dreamt of chocolate fountains, candy trees, and never-ending gobstoppers! As an adult, I appreciate the valuable lessons it teaches children about what really matters in life (family,) along with the continuous themes of positivity, generosity and honesty.
There are a few differences in this adaptation, as compared to the movie that most of us are familiar with. For example, Wonka (played by the talented Antonio Preston) triples his role to include Willy Wonka, "the candy man," and the narrator of the show. You'll also find that Mr. Bucket (played wonderfully by Kyle Ferguson) is alive and well, unlike in the film version, where we are told that Charlie's father has been deceased for some time. Although, Mr. Bucket is down on his luck when he finds himself out of work, which increases the financial hardship of the family. And, unlike the film, there is no villainous wolf in sheep's clothing who tries to bribe the children into swiping one of the "everlasting gobstoppers" in order for him to copy Wonka's formula. And, given that this adaptation is the junior version, I'd say that these changes only add to the appeal of the story.
As an ensemble, the cast performs tremendously well together with vibrant vocals, perfect projection and well sequenced dance steps--and I must mention that there are a few talented gymnasts among the ensemble, as well! This somewhat large ensemble of individuals primarily make up the cast of candy-loving Children and Oompa-Loompas, all of whom fill the stage with marvelous energy that is so dreamy and exciting for all the adorable youngsters in the audience. Preston, as their candy-man leader, likewise knows his way around the stage, given his skillful stride. And we are made acquainted with his cheeky humor and colorful character through his clever facial expressions and interactions with others on stage. Overall, Preston makes an excellent Willy Wonka!
Eisley Wood plays the classic Charlie Bucket with a tender sincerity that is heartwarming and lovable. Wood reliably communicates the important themes of positivity, generosity and honesty, as are mentioned above. Right from the beginning, the audience sees that there is a major difference in Charlie, aside from the obvious financial hardship, that doesn't exist in the other golden-ticket children. He is happy, already! He doesn't need a lot of money, a lot of candy or toys to be happy, either. He has learned that being with his family and enjoying the simple pleasures of life will keep him much more fulfilled than anything that eventually wastes away. The younger audience members have Charlie to look up to and the parents in the audience can feel a little more pride in knowing that quality time with their children will far outweigh all the material goods that we could lavish on our children.
Willy Wonka is a timeless tale of the kindness, goodness and faith that exists in all of us, should we care to see it! Don't miss this incredible production by Artisan Center Theater and the chance to connect with your children in a way that only Theatre can provide! Willy Wonka Jr continues through August 12. Tickets can be found at https://artisanct.com/
Audience Rating: G
Running Time: 1 hour, no intermission
Accessible Seating: Available
Sensory Friendly Showing: Not Available
Hearing Devices: Not Available
ASL Showing: Not Available
Volume Level: Comfortable Volume Level, somewhat quiet at times
Noises or Visuals to Prepare For: Occasional blackouts, some screaming during an intense scene
Y'all Enjoy!
Natalie Shaw
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