Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: Review by Liam Stretch

There’s something very sweet happening in Christchurch. Showbiz has returned to the boards with the opening of their much-anticipated take on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, based on the novel by Roald Dahl, with adaptations by David Greig, Marc Shaiman, and Scott Wittman.

Without saying too much, the story follows the one we know well, with a few sneaky adaptations to bring its humour to a modern audience. Director Stephen Robertson has done a good job of imagining it for a local audience, with just the right amount of relevant connection.

At the centre of it all is the enigmatic chocolate maker, Willy Wonka. Played by Bryn Monk, the young actor brings this character to life with wit and all the campery you can shake an everlasting gobstopper at. I’ve watched Bryn, a NASDA alum, over the years, and it is quite a special moment for Christchurch theatre-goers to see him take centre stage. Well done, Bryn -you didn’t miss a beat last night. And who knew you had that range!

For opening night, we had Franklin Domigan, one of three young actors playing Charlie Bucket. Franklin has some chops, and I was blown away by his ability to deal with a staging mishap. You’ll go far, Franklin, and I look forward to hearing how the other Charlies go in their portrayal of the role.

A favourite character from the original film for me was Grandpa Joe, so I was relieved to see that Showbiz stalwart Warwick Shillitto would be slipping on Joe’s socks. Warwick is always a joy to watch, and he brought the not-so-bedridden character to life with perfection. The English accent came across as well developed and – what can often be the case with NZ theatre – was not in any way annoying.

Other honourable mentions should go to his bed buddies: Anne-Marie Cotton (Grandma Josephine), Oscar Parkes (Grandpa George), and Heather McFarlane (Grandma Georgina). This group brought the laughs and a surprising amount of physical comedy for nonagenarians.

As for the group of fellow golden ticket winners, a couple stand out for me. Sophie Gilmore, as Mrs Teavee – the benzo-ed-up wine mum from middle America – had me in stitches. Maybe it was our mutual love for boxed wine that appealed to me, but she commanded the audience. Ted Eason, as her troublesome, screen-addicted son Mike Teavee, was also great. I still can’t figure out how he managed some of the physical tricks he pulled off on stage.

The Gloops – oh, the Gloops. Having spent some time in Bavaria, I’m now acutely aware of how difficult that accent must be to do, all while swinging a sausage with a great big pillow shoved under your T-shirt. This pairing – Nicholas Catto as Augustus, who was a disturbingly convincing 12-year-old, and Bridie Allen as his mother, Mrs Gloop – were just so much fun.

Everyone else in this group of golden ticket holders was amazing. Honourable mentions go to Chris Symon as Mr Salt for that accent and for parading around a hot stage in fur; Alyssa Parkinson as Violet Beauregard for her pipes; Meg Wyatt as Veruca Salt for that attitude; and Matt Ioane as Mr Beauregard for those boots – where can I get a pair?

An unexpected highlight was the beyond-camp TV hosts, Jerry Jubilee and Cherry Sundae, played by Elijah Moore and Rebecca Boyce, respectively. It was giving RuPaul's Drag Race acting challenge – for those who know. In the best possible way.

Also, the Oompa Loompas are there, and I think you’ll like them.

Of course, it goes without saying the music, under the direction of Richard Marrett, was fantastic. One thing that never ceases to amaze me is Showbiz’s capability with set production. The creative department really worked seamlessly together – there were quite a few moving parts, from props to extensive use of video, to a dazzling lighting display at times. The set was amazing, and I’ve seen shows across the world – Showbiz, you’re world-class.

There were a couple of minor opening night hiccups – but that’s theatre!

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is on until May 9 at the Isaac Theatre Royal. I’m not telling you to go see it – I’m imploring you.