Revisiting a hit show years into a long run is always an interesting prospect. One wonders how the show is holding up and whether or not the inevitable cast changes will have weakened the show. Well I am pleased to report that two years into its run at the glorious Theatre Royal, Drury Lane Charlie and the Chocolate Factory remains a fun filled extravaganza that will entertain the entire family.Based on the famous Roald Dahl children’s book (and subsequent film versions) the show follows the plight of Charlie Bucket, a young boy from a poor family, whose only wish is to discover the golden ticket that will provide him with the opportunity to tour the world famous Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory.
The first act, in which we meet Charlie’s extended family, which includes four humorously cantankerous grandparents, is a bit slow to get going and enlivened primarily by the amusing news reports identifying the four other children who have discovered the golden ticket. However once the deliciously malevolent Willy Wonka arrives on stage to take the children on a tour of the factory the show hits its stride.
As Willy Wonka, Jonathan Slinger, a classical actor known for his work at the RSC, is an absolute delight. An exceptionally strong singing/actor he manages to capture all the conflicting aspects of Wonka’s character. When he is on stage you cannot take your eyes off him.
The rest of the cast includes a mixture of new cast members and others who have been with the show since the beginning of the run. Pleasingly it is impossible to tell the difference and for a Monday night in September the cast was giving 100% throughout and you would have thought it was opening night.
The cast was giving 100% throughout and you would have thought it was opening night
Most impressive however were the child actors. There are generally three children playing each role in rotation. The performers I watched impressed with their adult level talent, skill and professionalism.
While the score by Shaiman and Whitman is pleasant enough the stand out song of the evening remains the classic Pure Imagination from the 1971 movie version. Sung by Wonka and Charlie from a levitating elevator the moment leaves the audience gasping with delight. In fact it must be mentioned that the entire set design for the show is incredibly impressive. This is definitely a big event show that will leave the whole family with lasting theatrical memories.
THE LATE HENRY MOSS at Southwark Playhouse until 26th of September. Mel Hillyard’s revival of Sam Shepard’s “The Late Henry Moss” at Southwark Playhouse is a gripping production that explores the mystery and pathology of the Moss family, unravelling the tragedy and complexity of male repression.