REVIEW — Tuacahn’s regional premiere of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is a perfectly serviceable and occasionally delightful musical that will entertain those looking for something new (albeit from a well-known story) and unique, and not “just another Disney musical.” It also provides a dash of familiarity and, thankfully, nearly all of the songs from the beloved 1971 film.
Although author Roald Dahl allegedly despised the movie, the new production follows more closely his original story, and the thinking here is that he would likely appreciate it. This is especially the case with the appropriately malevolent musical numbers (some hits, some misses) penned by the talented Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (“Catch Me If You Can,” “Hairspray”).
While actor Gene Wilder isn’t walking through the door to resurrect his iconic and wickedly sardonic Wonka, Jonathan Wagner — fantastic as Dewey in 2021’s production of “School of Rock” — does a fine job of capturing the character’s charisma and subtle wit. Wagner is the twisted but calm, creamy center of the frenetic chocolate storm around him.
Equally as important and able to carry off the title role is young local actor Charlie Stover. It’s easy to root for the kid who earns the last golden ticket that allows him and four other young winners to visit Wonka’s mysterious factory that hasn’t seen visitors in years. Stover’s performance is naturally sweet and unforced, and there is obvious chemistry with Wagner, even before Charlie realizes Wonka’s identity.
The other children are overindulged brats: Augustus Gloop (Jacob Tousley), Mike Teavee (Mack Lawrence), Violet Beauregarde (Gabriella Scott), and Veruca Salt (Laurel Knell) and are brought to life wonderfully by these uber-talented young performers. It is worth noting that their characters have been modernized, and their eventual brutal comeuppances toned down for today’s audiences.
The narratives of some of the songs, especially those that are character-driven, are sometimes murky and might only become more understandable through repeated listening.
The inventive, fast-moving sets and hyper-colorful visual designs (by Adam Koch and Steven Royal) are supported by extensive LED displays all contributing to the show’s breezy pacing that should pacify even antsy little ones. There’s a gag about whether nuts are good or bad that doesn’t exactly make sense, but when oversized squirrels enter the stage and start dancing you can’t help but smile. And that’s pretty much true every time the Oompa-Loompas surface – less menacing mischief and more whimsical diversion.
Reportedly this new Broadway version is an improvement over the original London adaptation. And while there’s not enough magic in the new songs or script to make anyone forget the films, as a piece of live theater it’s goofy fun with the occasional heart-warming moment.
And for those demanding it, Tuacahn’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is not just another Disney musical, with all the attendant upsides and downsides that portends.
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” performs weekly through Oct. 22 with ticket prices ranging from $30 to $146. Children under 3 are not permitted. Contact Tuacahn.org or 435-652-3300 for tickets and information.
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