Preview: Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

Preview: Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical, Mayflower Theatre, Southampton

The new production of the West End and Broadway smash hit, Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical, comes to Mayflower Theatre from Wednesday 16 August to Saturday 3 September 2023.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical tells the devilishly delicious tale of young golden ticket winner Charlie Bucket, and the mysterious confectionary wizard Willy Wonka.

When Charlie wins a golden ticket to the weird and wonderful Wonka Chocolate Factory, it’s a chance of a lifetime to feast on the sweets they’ve always dreamed of. But beyond the gates astonishment awaits, as down the sugary corridors and amongst the incredible and edible delights, the five lucky winners discover not everything is as sweet as it seems.

Leading the cast in the extraordinary role of Willy Wonka will be West End star, Gareth Snook.

“I hope audiences leave with a tear in the eye and a big smile on their face,” says Gareth. “I think the production is very moving, especially towards the end, and it is also great fun.

“All of the characters, from Wonka to Charlie, and all the children, have been written so vividly that they’re enticing.

“They all come from such different backgrounds – so kids can relate to them, and their families.

“Although they are all in some ways spoilt and excessive, and are allowed to be by their parents, kids can relate to this and find the enjoyment in it, especially when they get their just desserts.

“The story really has got everything.”

Featuring memorable songs from the iconic 1970s film, including The Candy Man and Pure Imagination, as well as a host of new numbers, this sensational musical is choc-full of fantastical treats to indulge the senses, bringing audiences to a world of pure imagination.

Tickets for Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical (Wednesday 16 August – Sunday 3 September 2023) are on sale at mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711811.

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