Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: A sneak peek behind the (sweet) scenes

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is a story that has inspired and charmed children and adults alike since its first publication, and we are so excited to present our own take on this timeless tale. The musical places a modern spin on the classic tale of Willy Wonka, mysterious chocolatier extraordinaire, and the children who win the golden ticket opportunity to explore his magical factory. 

The cast have been hard at work since November last year, rehearsing 2-3 times per week (and having lots of fun in the process!). One lesson learnt is to never leave your phone unattended at a rehearsal! Certain sneaky prowlers will get their hands on it and take selfies with it – see if you can figure out who the culprits are!

The cast and crew also get involved behind the scenes, from props and set-building days to running promotional and fundraising activities such as the Australia Day Parade, a Bunnings barbeque, a Camden Show performance, and a stand at Narellan Town Centre. Even crazy photoshoots at cool venues like The Dessert Lab in Camden, one of our partners for this show.

“Rehearsals have been going well. Amongst all the crazy costumes and exciting choreography, the vocals and blocking have been full steam ahead. It’s great that we get to spend the whole of March and April running the whole show and seeing all the work coming together beautifully!”

Isobel Holland, Co-director

“We are so excited to present Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in April at the Camden Civic Centre. Our cast have been working hard in rehearsals over the last few months and it has been incredible to see the show come together, particularly leading into these last few weeks before opening. We are looking forward to integrating the hard work of our props, sets, costumes and tech teams into the show and seeing it all come to life on stage.”

Sophie Cornett, Co-director

Think you’re a whiz at all things Charlie? Try your hand at our trivia quiz and find out!

1. In the original children’s book, what job does Mr. Bucket do before he becomes unemployed?

a) Toothpaste cap screwer

b) Shoe shiner

c) Candy seller

d) Florist

2. Which chocolate bar does Charlie receive for his birthday?

a) Triple Dazzle Caramel Bar

b) Wonka Bar

c) Wonka’s Whipple Scrumptious Fudge Mallow Delight

d) Nutty Crunch Surprise

3. In which country did “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Musical” premiere?

a) The United States (Broadway)

b) England (The West End)

c) Australia

d) Ireland

4. In the musical, Violet Beauregarde is also known as what?

a) The Bubblegum Princess

b) Lady Lollies

c) The Queen of Sweets

d) The Queen of Pop

5. Which two songs from the 1971 film “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” made it into the musical production?

a) Pure Imagination + The Queen of Pop

b) The Candy Man + Pure Imagination

c) The Candy Man + More of Him to Love

d) Almost Nearly Perfect + Pure Imagination

(Answers at the bottom)

Behind the scenes

Answers: 1.) a 2.) c 3.) b 4.) d 5.) b