Welcome to our 2024 holiday production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory! We truly appreciate you joining us during this busy time of year for this Roald Dahl favorite.
The lasting influence of this story, first published in 1964, is undeniable. The book is considered a classic and has been reprinted (and thoughtfully revised and updated) many times over the years. For some, their introduction to the story came with the 1971 film version starring Gene Wilder as Wonka; for others, it was the 2005 Tim Burton film with Johnny Depp. Still others may have first met Wonka in the 2023 Timothée Chalamet-led origin film, Wonka.
Like a Wonka-inspired confection, this 2017 stage adaption pulls multiple ingredients together. Familiar songs from the 1971 movie, such as “Pure Imagination” and “Candy Man” are mixed with new songs and elements from the book.
While it might seem unusual at first to bring this show to the stage during the holiday season, it's actually quite fitting. Of course, there’s the candy and sweets—always a favorite for kids (and adults) this time of year. But we’re also reminded of the consequences of greed and selfishness as the children and their parents tour a factory that would fail any OSHA inspection. Ultimately, it’s Charlie’s kindness and empathy that lead to his reward—a valuable reminder for kids and grownups alike during the holiday season, and perhaps even more so this year. In that way, the story offers a kind of Christmas Carol-esk lesson in the importance of sharing wealth and helping others.
Regardless of if you take away the moral lesson or simply revel in the sugary entertainment, thank you for making Theatre Lawrence a part of your holiday season.
Enjoy the show
Jamie Ulmer
Executive Director
