It’s musical season, Hillers! This year, the THS Musical Department is performing “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” follows Charlie Bucket and Grandpa Joe as they are taken to Mr. Wonka’s chocolate factory along with a group of other child winners and their parents. Lead roles include Charlie, played by Sophomore Stephanie Drezewski; Willy Wonka, portrayed by senior Caden Miller; and Grandpa Joe, depicted by junior Jacob Hillier.
Last year, THS put on “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat,” an older show that debuted in 1968. The show was a success, with unique differences from other musicals, like a lack of spoken dialogue and a smaller ensemble.
Mrs. Child, English teacher and director, said, “We decided to do ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ because we wanted to pick a newer show. Mr. Komula and I like to alternate between older and newer productions if we can. Last year’s show, although it was tons of fun, was an older one. ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ is a little bit newer.”
As director, Child organizes and holds auditions, meets with the production team, creates the rehearsal schedule and physically directs the cast on stage.
The musical theater department is a tight-knit group, which carries over to their productions.
Sophomore Noah Jahn, who plays the role of one of the children in the musical, Mike Teavee, said, “The relationship between the cast, crew and directors is very friendly, and we all have a good time together. There’s no hard feelings against any part of the production.”
The musical is based on the book by Roald Dahl. Dahl has published many popular books, including “Matilda,” “Fantastic Mr. Fox,” “The Witches” and “The BFG,” all of which are considered childhood classics. Despite his death in 1990, Dahl’s work continues to touch the lives of many.
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” premiered in 2013, following a long line of successful screen adaptations. “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” released in 1971, was an instant hit as Gene Wilder brought the mysterious Wonka to life. Johnny Depp and Timothée Chalamet also starred as the chocolatier in more recent films.
The show will be performed on stage from March 12 to 14 at 7 p.m., with the closing night scheduled for March 15 at 2 p.m.
Drezewski added, “Please come see the musical!!! It’s going to be really great and entertaining! And feel free to wear orange to represent the best characters, Oompas!”
