Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

“CHOCOLATE!”   -   The very word conjures up all sorts of deliciousness and this was a delicious production in many ways.  Based on Roald Dahl’s 1964 children’s novel, this musical has been extremely popular, touring all over the world and winning many awards.

Director Gareth Brighton and his cast and crew certainly brought the magic of this show to the Hippodrome Theatre in a very lively way. The large cast, including the featured dancers, ensemble and Oompa Loompas (they were great fun!) all worked well together to bring this delightful tale to life.  The search for the Golden Ticket had started.

Charlie Bucket played by Bertie Thomas-Jones and Willy Wonka (Nathan Morris) were very well cast, both giving excellent performances.  The rest of the large cast certainly gave their all to the piece – I can’t mention everyone’s name in this review but you can be assured that you all did everything possible to bring this show to life.

Singing from everyone was excellent and Musical Director Oscar Smith is not only to be congratulated for this but for also crocheting the Grandparents’ blanket!

Naomi Wareham was in charge of choreography which was top notch – everyone moving so well on this comparatively small stage.

The costumes were great with a good many quick changes.

The stage effects were handled very well, culminating with the fascinating Glass Elevator – a lot of work must have been put into elevating it. Congratulations to the whole backstage crew for coping with the scenery and all the other backstage jobs that have to be done.  The programme was colourful and interesting and the contents just prove that so many people are involved in getting a production like this on to the stage.  I hope all the cast were able to indulge in their chocolate choices!

I know that you had good houses for the whole run, which just goes to show how much your productions are appreciated.  Well done EODS!

By the way, if anyone is interested, my choice of chocolate will always be something deliciously plain!

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