LIHUE — Hawai‘i Children’s Theatre announced its cast for its fall production, “Willy Wonka,” which opens Nov. 18, according to a press release. The Broadway-style musical is based on the children’s story “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by Roald Dahl.
LIHUE — Hawai‘i Children’s Theatre announced its cast for its fall production, “Willy Wonka,” which opens Nov. 18, according to a press release. The Broadway-style musical is based on the children’s story “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” by Roald Dahl. HCT will present seven performances during its two weekend run at the Kaua‘i War Memorial Convention Hall in Lihu‘e. The final performance is Nov. 27.
The musical centers around Charlie (Blade Kanekuni), his parents, (Dolly Kanekuni and Jim Warrack) and both sets of grandparents (John Cabello, Lolli Hagen, Stephen Pinzer and Karen Firl). While Charlie’s family has trouble making a living, he meets a local candy man (Karen Tilley) who tries to help him.
Meanwhile, Willy Wonka (William McGovern), who owns a huge and mysterious candy factory, has opened a contest inviting five winners and their parents to tour his elusive factory. There’s Augustus Gloop (Elijah Borales), and Mrs. Gloop (Jennifer Plunkett); Veruca Salt (Helena Huffman) and Mrs. Salt (Layne Torgerson); Violet Beauregarde (Raina Silver) and Mrs. Beauregarde (Suzy Olson); plus Mike Teavee (Carolyn Price) and Ms. Teavee (Jessica Silver).
Willy Wonka’s mischievous helpers — the Oompa Loompas — are played by Siena Agudong, Neva Burkhart, Ava Irving, Sierra Mireles, Lily Oldham, Shea Olson, Jessica Palmer, Juliah Peck, Alena Pinzer, Kaylee Russell, Robbie Russell and Riley Silver.
Rounding out the cast is Mark Stein as Phineous Trout, plus Sydney Agudong, Tirah Brings, Noah Cabello, Ryan Elwin, Tyler Elwin, Kilinoe Garcia, Marli Genegabuas, Taj Gutierrez, Nico Maione, Ella Marcil, Chloe Rudinoff, Emma Schneck, Emily Threlkeld, Kay Torgerson, Lexi Warnock and Makenna Olson.
Ed Eaton directs with support from Marly Madayag as stage manager. The set is designed and built by Ron Horoshko with assistance from David Shell, Laura Stewart and Roger Horoshko. Poppy Shell is the costume designer. Music direction is by Morris Wise with assistance from Nina Saraos. Special effects and lighting design is by Arnoud Tersteeg. The show is produced by Debra Blachowiak, marking her 13th fall HCT production.
HCT hosts a benefit show 4 p.m. on Nov. 20. All tickets are $6 per person with a donation to a food bank or Salvation Army. On Nov. 26, the theater group will host a fundraiser.
HCT is asking for donations from the public. Call 639-2437 for more information about donations. For ticket information visit www.hawaiichildrenstheatre.com or call 246-8985.
