KENOSHA, Wis. — Southeast Wisconsin students will take audiences on a trip to a “world of pure imagination” later this fall when the National Youth Theatre presents Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka JR. at Reuther High School.
The musical, based on Dahl’s beloved book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, opens Thursday, Oct. 31, with a special 11 a.m. school-day performance. Public shows follow that evening at 7 p.m., then continue Saturday, Nov. 1, at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m., and Sunday, Nov. 2, at 2 p.m. All performances will be held at the Ralph J. Houghton Performance Center, Reuther High School, 913 57th Street, Kenosha, WI 53140.
The story follows Willy Wonka, the reclusive candy maker who opens his factory to five lucky children holding golden tickets. Among them is Charlie Bucket, an impoverished but kind-hearted boy who beats the odds and finds his way inside the factory. Alongside Charlie, the spoiled Veruca Salt, gluttonous Augustus Gloop, gum-chewing Violet Beauregarde and TV-obsessed Mike Teavee all discover the wonders — and temptations — of Wonka’s world.
Audiences can expect familiar songs from the classic film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, including “The Candy Man,” “I Want It Now!” and “Pure Imagination.”
“It takes tremendous imagination to communicate the whimsy and wonder of Willy Wonka’s factory, and it requires great sensitivity to deliver the musical’s key message on the importance of good character,” said Cohen, a National Youth Theatre director.
The show is adapted for the stage by Leslie Bricusse and Timothy Allen McDonald, with music and lyrics by Bricusse and Anthony Newley.
Tickets are available now, and organizers expect a strong turnout. For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.nytwisconsin.com.
About National Youth Theatre
National Youth Theatre works with thousands of young performers across the country, producing student-led versions of classic plays and musicals while fostering a love of the arts in local communities. The organization is committed to educational theatre, offering opportunities for elementary, middle, and high school students to participate in high-quality productions. Each year, National Youth Theatre stages dozens of shows that combine professional standards with student creativity, building teamwork, discipline, and confidence through live performance.
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