Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - The New Musical

What a “sweet treat” from Greenock Light Opera Club, performed at the Beacon Arts Centre! From the moment Willy Wonka (Graham Currie) walked out in front of the curtain to open the show with The Candy Man, the audience was drawn straight into the magic. It was a courageous way to start – singing solo before the curtain even lifted – but it worked beautifully, setting the tone for an evening full of charm, colour, and imagination. Based on the Broadway version, this production was a feast for the eyes and ears. The creative use of lighting added real flair – especially the striking ladder of light and glowing golden ticket effects, which helped capture the sense of wonder in Wonka’s world.

There was excellent character work throughout the entire cast, with everyone on stage fully embracing their roles and adding great detail and personality. On the Friday evening, Jamie Nimmo (alternating with Lily-Rose McShane) played Charlie Bucket, bringing warmth, sincerity, and a natural stage presence that carried the story with ease. Graham Currie gave a confident and engaging performance as Willy Wonka, mixing humour, mystery, sarcasm, and a touch of eccentricity that kept the audience captivated. The Grandparents were a real highlight – full of humour, character, and lovely harmony singing. Their comic timing and facial expressions were delightful. Sean McLaughlan (Grandpa George), Katie Howlett (Grandma Georgina), and Mary Goodwin (Grandma Josephine) all delivered wonderful performances. Michael Lyden (Grandpa Joe) formed a heart-warming partnership with Jamie’s Charlie, and Sarah Campbell (Mrs Bucket) added warmth and compassion to the family scenes. Her solo, If Your Father Was Here, was beautifully performed. Each of the golden ticket winners and their parents brought colour and fun to the story: Mike and Mrs Teavee (Ollie Kerr and Elaine Graham), Veruca and Mr Salt (Jessica Lawrence and Bailey Thompson), Violet and Mr Beauregarde (Eilidh Bonnar and Jack Harkness), and Augustus and Mrs Gloop (Rory Metcalfe and Linda Mitchell). All gave lively, humorous performances and created great contrasts in character, accents, and energy. Strong supporting performances from Katy Allan (Mrs Green), Arianne Moretti (Cherry), and Scott Smith (Jerry) added extra touches of humour as the show progressed. And of course, no Charlie and the Chocolate Factory would be complete without the Oompa Loompas! The younger cast members did a superb job here – full of confidence, characterisation, and enthusiasm. Their movement, singing, and timing were spot on, and they brought so much personality to each scene. It was lovely to see such talent and hard work shining from the younger members of the club.

This was a joyful and imaginative production, full of teamwork and creativity. From the clever design and lighting to the energy of the cast and direction, GLOC delivered a polished, heart-warming evening of theatre that truly celebrated the spirit of Pure Imagination. Congratulations to everyone involved on a wonderful show!

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