The deliciously sweet story of the eccentric Willy Wonka has been loved by kids since 1964, when author Roald Dahl wrote Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Now the scrumpdidilyumptious musical will be performed by kids when the Missoula Children’s Theatre presents Willy Wonka Kids on Friday, November 10 and Saturday, November 11.
Willy Wonka opens the doors to his mysterious chocolate factory to the 5 lucky individuals who find a golden ticket in their Wonka bars. Among the winners are young Charlie Bucket, whose life is rich with family love, but poor in most material possessions. Charlie’s Grampa Joe accompanies him for the factory adventure. They’re joined by the gluttonously hungry Augustus Gloop, the gum-chewing Violet Beauregarde, the self-centered Veruca Salt, and the screen-focused Mike Teavee.
All of the roles in MCT’s production will be played by the 49 cast members comprised of kids in grades Kindergarten through 5th grade. This adaptation, licensed through Music Theatre International, contains the the signature songs “The Candy Man,” “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” and “Pure Imagination,” as well as the Oompa Loompa musical meditations.
The five-week rehearsal process has been led by director Amy Lariviere, music director Kirsten Paisley, education director Matt Loehrke, and class administrator Eric Prim. Loehrke encourages people to get their tickets before available seats become as rare as golden tickets! The performances are Friday, November 10 at 7:00 PM, and Saturday, November 11 at 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM. All performances take place at the MCT Center for the Performing Arts.
Tickets are available at www.MCTinc.org, in person at the MCT Box Office (9AM-5PM, M-F) or by calling 728-7529. Willy Wonka Kids is sponsored by Frenchtown Dental and Langel & Associates, PC.