Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

A magical theatrical journey that captured hearts and imaginations.

WOW Youth Musical Theatre transformed Weymouth Pavilion into a world of pure imagination with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in April 2025 — and the reviews have been just as magical as the show itself.

Performed by a cast of 38 young people, the production played to over 3,100 audience members across five performances, delighting families and theatre-goers with Roald Dahl’s much-loved story brought vividly to life. From the moment the curtain rose, audiences were swept into Roald Dahl’s whimsical tale with spectacular staging, brilliant performances, and live music that truly brought the story to life.

Charlie and mum watch the grandparents read the newspaper they are sharing.

The Dorset Echo described the production as a dazzling theatrical experience, noting that WOW’s interpretation transported the packed Pavilion “into a world of wonder, wit and whipple-scrumptious delight.” Highlights such as The Candy Man and Pure Imagination were delivered with polish, passion and vibrant live music, perfectly complementing the on-stage performances. The review also singled out standout moments from the young cast, including the warm, sincere portrayal of Charlie and the magnetic presence of Willy Wonka, contributing to a show that was “believable, bonkers and beautiful all at once.”

In the NODA show report, the production was celebrated as a spectacular achievement that met the show’s emotional and theatrical challenges with confidence and flair. NODA praised the seamless transport through the story’s many worlds — from humble beginnings to the extraordinary factory interior — and highlighted the brilliant work of the ensemble, particularly the choreography and energy of the Oompa-Loompas and other group numbers. Both the Director and Choreographer, Martine Burt, and Musical Director, Jessamy Bowditch, were commended for the high quality of the production.

Individual performances drew special recognition, with Mrs Bucket’s heartfelt rendition of If Your Father Were Here and Willy Wonka’s high-octane panache standing out among the many memorable portrayals. NODA also noted the emotional relationships at the heart of the show — especially between Charlie and his family — which added depth and heart to the spectacle.

The technical elements, including set, lighting and projections, enhanced the sense of wonder and helped bring Dahl’s fantastical world to vivid life, adding colour, movement and visual storytelling that delighted audiences of all ages.

Overall, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was celebrated as an uplifting and timely production that showcased extraordinary talent across the cast and creative team, leaving audiences with smiles, standing ovations and memories to treasure.