La Crosse Community Theatre’s highly anticipated production of Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” kicks off its run in the Lyche Theatre at the Weber Center for the Performing Arts on Friday and runs through Oct. 23.
Based on the famous 1964 novel by Roald Dahl, the show features an original score composed by Marc Shaiman with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Broadway’s “Hairspray” and “Catch Me If You Can,” TV’s “SMASH” and the film “Mary Poppins Returns”) and a book by David Greig. The score also pays homage to the Leslie Bricusse/Anthony Newley score from the 1971 film with songs from the motion picture including “Candy Man,” “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket” and “Pure Imagination.”
The musical, presented in collaboration with Altra Federal Credit Union, tells the story of the world-famous Willy Wonka, who is opening the gates to his mysterious factory, but only to a lucky few. Young Charlie Bucket and four other golden ticket winners embark on a life-changing journey through Wonka’s world of pure imagination including chocolate waterfalls, nutty squirrels and the great glass elevator, all to be revealed by Wonka’s army of curious Oompa-Loompas.
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“This show brings the songs and moments we love from the 1971 film ‘Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory’ and combines it with amazing new songs and modern twists,” says Mary Cate Wesling, who will be directing the production. “The beloved book is breathing new life within this new and outstanding script and score. LCT getting to premiere this stellar production is a privilege, and I am honored that I have the opportunity to direct it.”
IF YOU GO
WHEN: There are performances on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m.
PRICES: $30-$35; Student and Military discounts available; $20 rush seating subject to availability per performance
BOX OFFICE HOURS: 3 to 5 pm, Monday-Friday—Phone: 608-784-9292
“This show brings the songs and moments we love from the 1971 film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory and combines it with amazing new songs and modern twists.”
Mary Cate Wesling, director
