Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

As a lifelong lover of Roald Dahl’s books, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory holds a special place in my heart. While the stage adaptation has never quite captured the full magic of the original for me; that unique blend of wit, wonder, and just a hint of darkness.

Downfield Musical Society delivered an imaginative, colourful production full of energy, charm, and theatrical invention. Under the direction of Ross Lesslie, the show moved with confidence and clarity. Scenes were tightly staged, well-paced, and filled with playful detail. Rebecca Smith’s choreography injected vibrancy throughout — from slick Oompa Loompa routines to joyful ensemble moments — while Ian Strachan’s musical direction brought a warm, lively sound to the score, with strong vocal performances and a balanced, responsive band. From the colourful chaos of the factory workers to the over-the-top flair of the golden ticket winners, the costumes helped define each character and added to the visual storytelling. The Oompa Loompas were particularly striking — a creative, unified look that matched the choreography perfectly and added a layer of magic to every factory scene.

Fraser Paterson led the cast with a wonderfully quirky portrayal of Willy Wonka — engaging, unpredictable, and delightfully nuanced. He handled the character’s eccentricities with ease and was consistently watchable. Theo Miranda gave a grounded and heartfelt performance as Charlie Bucket, and Sophia Mercer was a standout as Mrs Bucket, delivering a character-driven performance with a beautiful, expressive singing voice.

Matthew Millar charmed as Grandpa Joe, ably supported by Lynn MacFarlane (Grandma Josephine), Alison Wylie (Grandma Georgina), and Graeme Smith (Grandpa George). Their shared bed scene was a lovely moment of humour and tenderness, capturing the spirit of family at the heart of the story.

Sian Johnstone was a riot as Mrs Gloop, full of comic gusto. Raymond Uphill Wood brought flamboyant flair to Mr Beauregarde, Nicole Lawson gave a down-to-earth performance as Mrs Teavee, and Alex McCunn delivered a standout turn as Mr Salt capturing the exasperated indulgence of a father at the mercy of his spoiled daughter with great comic timing and character detail.

Robyn Gaughan and Drew Knox as Cherry and Jerry were a comic delight — their timing, delivery, and facial expressions stole every scene they appeared in. Special mention also to Gavin White, who appeared across several ensemble roles with impressive speed and commitment — his lightning-fast changes and versatility did not go unnoticed. Daria Comerford (Augustus Gloop), Suzanne Wylie (Veruca Salt), Adeline Foote (Violet Beauregarde), and Benji Millar (Mike Teavee) all embraced their characters with spirit and individuality. Their performances were confident, funny, and full of youthful talent and a testament to the strength of Downfield’s young cast.

The ensemble and Oompa Loompas were essential to the show’s success, bursting with energy, commitment, and character. Their movement and vocals created the wacky, unpredictable world of Wonka’s factory and added vibrancy to every number.

Technically, the show was strong. Projections added colour and depth to each location, enhancing the magic of the factory, while PC Lighting set the right tone across every scene from the humble Bucket home to the dazzling inventing room. The glass elevator was a clever, imaginative touch that provided a satisfying visual climax, and transitions were handled smoothly throughout.

Though the musical itself may not completely capture the heart of Dahl’s original story, Downfield Musical Society’s production found its own flavour; rich in heart, humour, and theatricality. A sweet and satisfying golden ticket experience.

Well done everyone, Congratulations for a chocotastic show.  

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