Highland Park Players Presents Willy Wonka

The Highland Park Players is proud to present Willy Wonka, an entertaining story about the greatest candy maker in the world and his quest to find an heir for his chocolate factory.  The production includes eight performances to be held at the Edgewood Middle School Auditorium on February 18, 19, 25 and 26.

Roald Dahl’s well-known story of the world-famous candy man and the bratty kids and their ill-mannered parents comes to life in this stage adaptation of the enduring book which features songs from the classic family film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.  The score features “The Candy Man,” “Pure Imagination,” “Oompa Loompa,” and “I Want It Now” by Academy and Grammy award winners Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley.  

“We chose to produce Willy Wonka because it’s a fantastic tale of a whimsical candyland with memorable characters, enjoyable song and dance numbers, and a strong moral to the story,” said Krista Koutsis, producer. “The show teaches children about the power of positive thinking and the rewards of being honest.  Furthermore, the Oompa Loompas touch upon important topics, such as overeating and watching too much TV, which were societal issues when the novel was written in 1964 and continue to be of concern today.”

Performance schedule/details:

• February 18, 19, 25, 26
• Show times are at 1p.m. and 3p.m. each day
• Running time approximately 65 minutes and appropriate for ages 3 and up
• Cast will be signing autographs after each performance

All tickets are $10; there is an additional $1 service fee for tickets purchased online. Tickets are good for any of the eight performances and are general admission.  Purchase tickets at West Ridge Center, 636 Ridge Road in Highland Park or online at www.highlandparkplayers.com. 

Directed by Peter Rasey with musical direction by Marty Karlin, the show is magical and imaginative.  Additionally, choreographer Marissa Hockfield infuses playfulness into the production.