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Regional Reviews: Phoenix Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
The story follows Charlie Bucket, a sweet and selfless boy from a poor family who dreams of a better life. When eccentric chocolatier Willy Wonka hides five golden tickets in his candy bars, Charlie wins the chance to tour the world's most marvelous chocolate factory. Alongside four other less-than-perfect children, he experiences a series of wondrous, and often disastrous, rooms filled with Wonka's fantastical creations. The musical borrows several of Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley's iconic tunes from the beloved 1971 film, such as "The Candy Man" and "Pure Imagination," while adding a variety of new songs with music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman that expand the story and characters. While the new songs never reach the heights of those by Bricusse and Newley, there are a few that are catchy and clever. These include "It Must Be Believed to Be Seen," which introduces Wonka to the winners of the contest outside of his chocolate factory, and the sweet and simple but highly effective "If Your Father Were Here," which Charlie's mother sings. David Greig's book manages to combine elements from both Dahl's novel and the film into a fairly cohesive story that should delight fans of both. Charlie Bucket is played with heartwarming sincerity by Benicio "Beni" Bermudez (he alternates in the part with Griffin Avery). Bermudez's gentle voice and genuine charm make the character instantly lovable. Willy Wonka, brought to life by Nick Gunnell, is equal parts mischievous trickster and wise guide, with a twinkle in his eye, razor-sharp comic timing, and a singing voice that soars. As Mrs. Bucket, Amanda Valenzuela exudes warmth and quiet resilience, and her solo song "If Your Father Were Here" is beautifully delivered, while Gary Pimentel's sharp comic timing as Grandpa Joe achieves a delightful mix of humor and heart. All four young adult actors who play the other ticket winners create excellent versions of these bratty kids. Maddie Sue Miller is hilariously bratty and over-the-top as Veruca Salt; her selfish tantrums are comically delicious and her ballet skills lovely. Violet Beauregarde, played by Janaysha Garcia, is a fierce and flashy diva with a larger-than-life personality and a powerful singing voice that fills the stage. As Augustus Gloop, William Lovell is gleefully gluttonous and an absolute comic hoot in the role, while Albert Mendoza nails the snarky, screen-obsessed attitude of Mike Teavee. Trevon Powell, Cameron Rollins, Kathleen Richards, and Karissa Anderson play their parents, with each adding moments of hilarity with their comical facial expressions and humorous body language. The ensemble play numerous roles with glee, including having an absolute blast as Wonka's factory workers, the Oompa-Loompas. Cambrian James' direction and fun choreography embrace the story's zanier moments, letting the comedy and spectacle constantly shine without ever losing the huge heart at the story's center. The creative elements (McKenna Carpenter and Adam DeVaney's immersive set design, Brielle Hawkes' colorful costumes, and Ashton Corey's gorgeous lighting) create a rich and colorful candy-coated wonderland on stage while mirroring the imaginative nature of the story; the way the Oompa-Loompas are brought to life is simple but ingenious. Lincoln Wright's music direction delivers some truly lovely notes from the entire cast. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at Hale Centre Theatre is a sweet, vibrant, and joyful confection that will most likely leave you grinning from ear to ear. While the crazy Oompa-Loompa antics and candy-filled chaos dazzle and delight, the musical and Hale's production, like Dahl's beloved children's book, always circles back to Charlie's simple goodness and the pure joy of imagination. It's a humorous life lesson that still resonates today. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory runs through August 16, 2025, at The Hale Centre Theatre, 50 W. Page Avenue, Gilbert AZ. For tickets and information, please visit www.haletheatrearizona.com or call 480-497-1181 Producers and Casting Directors: David and Corrin Dietlein Cast: |
