Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

For those lucky enough to have had a ‘Golden Ticket’ to watch this talented young group performing it would be hard not to leave with tasty memories of this presentation of Roald Dahl’s classic story some 60 years after the book was first written.

On the face of it the chance to explore a trip to Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory would be every child’s dream (and many an adult). However, as with many of the author’s works there is a dark side to the storyline which involved a great deal of technical work behind the scenes with expanding suits and disappearing children being swallowed up by machinery on stage.

The two main characters of Willy Wonka and Charlie Bucket were wonderfully portrayed by Finlay Rose and Catrin Nellist. They maintained character throughout in their demanding roles having to master some tricky music and lyrics. Finlay had a mischievous air about him which enabled him to deal with some of the character’s less pleasant traits. Catrin did well to convey the more humble aspects of her part particularly when compared with the other 4 ‘Golden Ticket’ winners. Special mention should go to Jessica Brierley as Mrs Bucket who sang the number ‘If your father were here’ beautifully. Sam Appleton as Grandpa Joe had a great spring in his step reinvigorated by Charlie’s winning ticket. He brought real warmth to the part.

Oliver McKinley, Nova Anglesea, Emily Jones and Liam Fry-Davies all captured the varying degrees of unpleasantness that their parts required as the 4 spoilt children each met their fate on the factory trip. They all brought laughter and individual characteristics to their performances and seemed to relish being as naughty as the script allowed.

Oliver Pearce and Charlie Sutton were perfectly cast as the fathers of Veruca Salt and Violet Beauregarde respectively. Special mention should be given to Millie Roberts as Mrs Gloop and Lily Barrasford as Mrs Teavee who were excellent and brought out the humour of their roles.

There was a cast of 32 and so unfortunately too many to name everyone. However, the whole cast leant support to the principals and there wasn’t a weak link to be found.

On the Friday night we suspect that there may have been some problems backstage which led to a very long interval and the audience were left guessing at the reason for the delay. However, it could be seen that there was a great deal for the technical and backstage crew to cope with and they should be congratulated on a colourful and imaginative set making full use of the space available, particularly with the grandparents’ home and the TV set which was a key feature in the plot.

Many congratulations to the Director Anne Davenport, Musical Director, Catrin Wright, and the whole team behind a truly scrumptious performance.

It’s wonderful to see the enthusiasm of a young cast so ably encouraged and directed. All involved with LYMT are a credit to amateur theatre in the area and should be very proud of this production.

Richard Williams

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