MVNU Theatre presenting Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

MOUNT VERNON, Ohio — Step into a world of pure imagination as Mount Vernon Nazarene University Theatre presents the beloved, magical musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – based on Roald Dahl’s classic tale — March 27-30. This family-friendly adventure promises to delight audiences with its mouth-watering visuals, unforgettable characters, and powerful lessons about selfishness and greed.

Join us as Willy Wonka, played by MVNU junior Tyler Maddux, opens the gates to his fantastical factory for a select few lucky winners of the Golden Ticket. Young Charlie Bucket, an imaginative boy with a knack for making something out of nothing, is one of the fortunate few who get the opportunity to tour the eccentric Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory.

Alongside Charlie, played by Madigan Kennedy, are the other contest winners: the gluttonous Augustus Gloop (Josiah Holloway); Veruca Salt (Kyra Bradshaw), the spoiled princess; Violet Beauregarde (Kara Jenkins), the chewing gum celebrity; and Mike Teavee (Caleb D’Imperio), the over-amped computer hacker. These kids will soon discover that Willy Wonka’s over-the-top factory is more than they bargained for as they learn valuable lessons in a world of pure imagination — with a few surprises along the way!

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, produced by director Sydney Moon, assistant director Zane Menzie, music director Sabina Anderson, choreographer Michelle Taylor and technical director Bryson McVay, promises to be a delightful experience for audiences of all ages. It combines Roald Dahl’s whimsical storytelling with thrilling choreography, vibrant music, and a set that must be “believed to be seen.”

“Theatre creates a strong community, fosters a space for creativity and talents to blossom, and strengthens social and emotional skills for everyone involved,” said Moon. “I believe having a strong theatre program enhances the overall MVNU experience for current and prospective students, so one of my main goals as I stepped into the position of Theatre Coordinator this year was to begin strengthening our program and putting on higher-end productions than MVNU has done in recent years. Our fall play was a great success at getting this momentum rolling, and I am so excited for audiences to see what we have pulled off for this show. We have such a talented and hard-working Creative Team, Cast, and Crew that has elevated this musical beyond my wildest dreams. This is a show you do not want to miss!”

Rounding out the cast are: Grandpa Joe (Zane Menzie); Mrs. Bucket (Kyla Turvey); Mrs. Gloop (Gracyn Lyle); Mr. Salt (Logan Davis); Mr. Beauregarde (Elwood Kreider); Mrs. Teavee (Oz Racine); Grandma Josephine (Chloe Hall); Grandma Georgina (Destiny Fullerton); Grandpa George (Andrew Connor); Cherry Sundae (Naomi Painter); Jerry Jubliee (Logan Foudy); Mrs. Green (Fin Stutzman); Herman (Jeremy Seymour); and Genevieve (Hannah Painter).

The music ensemble is made up of: Kate Carter, Nick Cline, Nasir Cousin, Abby Crumbacher, Garen Feisel, Chloe George, Hannah Leskey, Anna Mahaffey, Tristan Mingus and Braden Taylor. The ensemble will play a variety of roles throughout the show, including Oompa Loompas, reporters, Gum Chompin’ Divas, Ballet-dancing squirrels, and more!

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will be presented at the Thorne Performance Hall in the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Fine Arts Center, with multiple showtimes to choose from — Thursday, Friday, or Saturday, March 27-29, at 7:00 p.m. nightly or on Sunday, March 30, at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available now at https://mvnutheatre.ludus.com/. Don’t miss your golden opportunity to be part of this magical adventure!

NOTE: This production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory stays true to the spirit of Roald Dahl’s original story, so please note that some scenes may be intense for younger children or sensitive viewers. Parents are advised to bring younger children at their discretion.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI (http://www.mtishows.com).