Charlie And The Chocolate Factory – The Musical At Milton Keynes Theatre Review

Reviewed by Lindsey Wilkins

Recently we had heard the news Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Musical was coming to Milton Keynes Theatre in February, and even better we were asked to review it. Excited doesn’t come close! I had seen the promo posts and posters on social media and around Milton Keynes, so I knew we’d be in for a treat.

Before getting into the theatre, there was a rather large queue outside. Although it was handled very well by the staff, and we were quickly moving into the foyer.

The theatre foyer looked fantastic as we walked in, you could see everyone had been working hard to get it decorated and ready for when the doors open.

We had a look at the merchandise stall, which was proudly decorated with memorabilia of the musical. All items were very reasonably priced.

The theatre was busy and buzzing with a varied age audience, ranging from young children to the elderly!
We were shown to our seats by a friendly member of staff, and we noticed how clear the view was from the circle. We could even see the orchestra in front of the stage, creating the magic behind the story. We noticed that our seats had binoculars if we wanted a closer view of the sets and performance.

My kids and I both grew up with the famous Roald Dahl story of the lucky boy with the golden ticket. The whole world is desperately after 5 golden tickets hidden inside 5 random wonka bars. These rare gems are a gateway into the most famous chocolate factory to exist. The 5 lucky children to find them are cheerful Augustus Gloop, spoiled Veruca Salt, the princess of pop Violet Beauregarde, technology addict Mike Teavee, and the lucky Charlie Bucket. But not every child proves to be as deserving of the tour as they perceive themselves to be.

Through the wonders of Wonka’s factory, some find themselves lost in the magic of candy making. Only one child can win the prize, and it comes to show that kindness is key.

With the audience in anticipation, the show opened with a moving number, performed by Charlie Bucket (played by Noah Walton), about his appreciation for the small things people simply throw away. It really introduced his character to the audience, especially if they had not read the book or watched the films. Later introducing the family, and creating the strong, loving relationship between Charlie, his mother, and Grandparents.

The special effects created by the screen and projections were great. It was a very smart way of creating a picture for the audience, and really setting the scene. Although, I feel that the stage lights could have added a lot more character and colour to the scenes and songs. Nearer to the end, the glass elevator rises in the air, really bringing the story alive.

Each characters costume fit accurately to their personalities, and represented their characters well. The oompa loompa costumes were especially different, giving a more futuristic feel to the characters. We thought this added great individuality to the performance!

The singing was flawless, every note had the audience fixed to the stage. All children apart from Charlie had their own song, portraying their characters, backgrounds, and interests. The routines were well rehearsed and put together.

Charlie Bucket was portrayed brilliantly by Noah Walton. His polite and selfless nature was displayed so impressively through the emotions of the songs and lines he delivered. Noah is such an incredible actor, his role as Charlie Bucket was very well deserved.

The role of Grandpa Joe, played by Michael D’cruze, warmed our hearts with his relationship and care towards Charlie. He truly believed that Charlie had a chance at getting a golden ticket, despite the family’s poverty. D’cruze really showed the loving and supporting aspects of Charlie’s Grandfather.

The famous Willy Wonka, portrayed by Gareth Snook, was as crazy and creative as in the original story, shown through his outgoing outfit and personality. His duality between being kind hearted and gentle, and insanely enthusiastic was perfectly demonstrated in his relationship towards charlie in comparison to the other children. Realising the true nature of the golden ticket winners had him doubted in his quest to find a new factory owner, but kind, creative charlie gave him the hope he was searching for.

Every child performer did an amazing job portraying the other four lucky winners of which were Augustus Gloop; played by Robin Simões da silva, Veruca Salt; played by Kazmin Borrer, Violet Beauregarde; played by Marisha Morgan, and Mike Teavee; played by Teddy Hinge. Every personality of the greedy, bratty, sassy, and moody children were displayed accurately to their characters in the book and films!

We were pleasantly surprised that Mrs. Bucket (played by Leonie Spilsbury) was using sign language throughout her lines and songs! The other characters in the family signed back to her, which showed the strong, heartwarming bond between them. It was lovely to see the inclusivity of the hard of hearing. This will be an inspiration to anyone in the audience that is hard of hearing or struggling with a disability, that they are not restricted to what they can do! Even some of the cast signed “thank you”, after they had taken their proud bows.

The live orchestra playing throughout the performance were outstanding! We were in awe of the magical sounds that played out from before the stage. Their talent was remarkably displayed!

It was a wonderful evening of pure imagination. Don’t miss out!

Rating: I rate it 5.

The show is on from Thursday 9th February 2023 – Sunday 5th March 2023

Tickets cost from £13.00 (subject to a transaction fee of £3.80) 

For more information or to book tickets please visit Charlie and the Chocolate Factory The Musical Tickets | Milton Keynes Theatre in Milton Keynes | ATG Tickets