Haverhill drama group The Centre Stage Company set to perform it’s biggest production; Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
A whopping cast of 45 will be involved in the forthcoming performances of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, described as the biggest show ever undertaken by the Centre Stage Company.
Tickets have been selling well for the shows, which will run at Haverhill Arts Centre from October 23 to 26.
The much-loved musical, based on the story by Roald Dahl, sees Alex Griffiths take on the role of Charlie Bucket and Steve Murray that of Willy Wonka, owner of the chocolate factory.
Director Victoria Harvey said of the production: “This is definitely the biggest show we have undertaken due to the technical aspects.
“There were so many possibilities of how we could pull off different moments, such as the lift and the candy shop, so it was hard to come up with the initial ideas.
“We have been incredibly lucky with the support we have been offered from local companies including Edmo (Lifts) and GCB Cocoa, who have helped us to make this possible.
“We have had to create different ways of approaching things that people did not think possible. As Wonka says, ‘it must be believed to be seen’.
“It has been the most incredible process creating this show and working with such talented cast members.
“My mum, Claire, and I have had to explore so many different ways of making props. All our props are handmade, including the sweets and chocolate!
“My mum, particularly, has worked every day to make this an amazing experience for all involved as well as the audience coming to see it.”
Some of the well-known songs include Pure Imagination, I’ve Got a Golden Ticket, The Candy-man, Queen of Pop and Vidiots.
The plot, added Victoria, is similar to the famous story, with ‘a few added twists and turns through the eccentricity of Wonka’s factory’.
She added: “Initially we meet Wonka and Charlie and see the relationship they build up through their love of chocolate before Charlie finds his golden ticket and starts his adventure into the factory.”
Other principal cast members include George Bellamy (Grandpa Joe), Luke Turley (Augustus Gloop), Sam Barker (Mrs Gloop), Cahir Williams (Veruca Salt), Liam Manley (Mr Salt), Emily Bonfield (Violet Beauregarde), James Player, also the choreographer (Mr Beauregarde), Oliver Reid (Mike Teavee) and Jacqui Player (Mrs Teavee).
There are also two ensembles supporting as oompa loompas, news reporters and townsfolk.
To check if tickets for the show are still available contact Haverhill Arts Centre on 01440 714140 or go to https://haverhillartscentre.co.uk.
