Some familiar friends are setting up shop at the Arkansas Repertory Theatre next month. “Willy Wonka Jr.” will take the stage June 21-30, a musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” with all your favorite characters in tow.
As an add-on to the theater’s 2019 season, this production is put on by The Rep’s education department and features a full cast of young, up-and-coming actors.
To find out what to expect, we caught up with Anna Kimmell, director of education for The Rep and the show’s director and choreographer.
How does the play differ from the book and movie?
Anna Kimmell: This theatrical adaptation does a great job of combining elements of the book and film. You’ll hear your favorite tunes from the 1971 movie, but in some instances, the musical is more true to the book. (For example, Veruca doesn’t want a golden goose, she wants squirrels in the nut room.) Roald Dahl’s characters are the most important part of any incarnation of the story, and they are as lovable, and love-to-hatable, as ever before. And, of course, we’re adding our own Rep-spin to this production with creative staging and design, so expect a mix of new and nostalgic.
The Rep describes the show as “a musical treat for generations of candy lovers.” Why would you encourage adults to see this production?
AK: The short answer is: If you grew up reading the book or watching the Gene Wilder movie, a nostalgic trip to the chocolate factory will do your soul some good.
The long answer is: The best children’s stories are not just for children. Classics such as the Narnia series, Harry Potter, Dr. Seuss, “A Wrinkle in Time” and Roald Dahl’s novels mix together the perfect concoction of childlike imagination, magical (though not entirely unbelievable) worlds, dark humor, unexpected heroes and life lessons that kids need to learn and adults need to remember.
What’s your favorite number and why?
AK: It’s so tough to choose! My favorite songs you’ll recognize from the film are “Pure Imagination,” “I Want It Now” and “Golden Ticket.”
But my new favorite song that’s unique to this production is “Think Positive,” a duet between Charlie and Mr. Bucket. The arrangement has all of the jazzy, upbeat elements of a catchy Broadway show tune, and the message encapsulates the Bucket family mantra: You can’t control your situation, but you can control your perspective. Even though they’re not wealthy or successful, maintaining an “attitude of gratitude” makes their lives full and happy — even without a lifetime supply of chocolate (though, let’s be honest, chocolate certainly doesn’t hurt!).
Opening night for “Willy Wonka Jr.” is Friday, June 21. For showtimes and more information, or to purchase tickets online, visit The Rep’s website. You can also call (501) 378-0405 or visit the theater’s box office downtown at 601 Main St.
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