We’ve got a golden ticket
Each year, audiences anxiously wait for the annual Holy Redeemer production to hit the stage. And this past week they got one step closer by announcing their cast and crew for their upcoming main stage play, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
“Ever since the school year started, we hit the ground running,” says Drama Teacher Peter Taylor. “Our set is well underway. Our costume team is busy making some important designs. And now the cast is set. Needless to say, it’s been a very busy start to the year.”
Over 55 grade 7 to 12 students are set to be a part of the landmark production that will bring Roald Dahl’s beloved novel to life. The play tells the story of young Charlie Bucket who wins the opportunity of a lifetime when he finds the lucky Golden Ticket (along with three other not-so-nice children) and the chance to visit the world famous chocolate factory of the legendary Willy Wonka.
The production features of a number of newcomers to the HRH Drama Department combined with many familiar faces. Two such veterans are Ethan Handford and Quinn Larder who will both take on the larger than life character of Wonka. “This is going to be so much fun,” says Larder, who is no stranger to drama after playing The Grinch and the Sheriff of Nottingham in the last two productions. “I’m looking forward to bringing this character to life.” And when asked about the recent passing of Gene Wilder, who played the legendary character in the 1971 classic film, and he would live up to those expectations he said, “I’m just going to make the character my own, and hopefully I’ll do Gene proud.” Handford is also a veteran on the HRH stage playing Kris Kringle and Guy of Gisbourne in the last two plays.
Two other young actors that have been double cast in a major role are grade 8 students Jayna Fedorak and Morgan Steffler, who will both play the title role of Charlie. “These two young actors have already proven they can take on this major character,” says Taylor. “They were both extremely impressive during last year’s two plays. I can’t wait to see how they tackle this role.”
There are eleven grade 7 students joining the cast and crew of the show. Two such young stars include Rhett Bourque and Ethan Toner who will play two of the Golden Ticket finders Mike Teavee and Augustus Gloop respectively. Rounding out the other children in the show are Carissa Simmons (grade 8) who plays the gum chewing Violet Beauregarde and Ava Simmons (grade 9) who will play the spoiled brat Veruca Salt.
Rehearsals are now well underway and audiences can expect tickets to go on sale November 1. There are six public performances planned between November 30 to December 3, along with four special matinees for local schools.
The HRH Drama Department is also looking for local businesses to help sponsor the show. Companies are encouraged to contact the school for more information.
And with that, audiences can start the countdown to their special tour of Willy Wonka’s factory, and you can bet it’s going to be one for the books.