York’s NETheatre bring another classic story to the stage, with their new production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Is it just the ticket? Find out below!

Alice Atang played Charlie, one of several children playing the impoverished Bucket boy, or in this case girl. She stood out as an especially strong actor, not just acting but also reacting. A talented singer too, her duet with Wonka in the elevator was a triumph. 

All of the tickets winners are well cast, suitably brattish and greedy. We especially enjoyed Toby Wood’s (no relation!) Augustus Gloop, complete with comically-oversized belly and on-point German accent. Zehr gut!

Their suffering parents are excellent too, with special mention to Perri Barley as Mrs Teavee, who downs her ‘mummy water’ from a hip flask to cope. Almost-dame Mrs Gloop (Chris Hagyard) is hilarious too, especially in More of Him to Love

Grandpa Joe (NE Theatre’s Creative Director and Producer Stephen Tearle) is delightfully endearing, and has some of the funniest lines. His relationship with Charlie is believable, and we’re rooting for them to win the grand prize. 

All the ensemble performers work hard and are good at covering any first-night blips and teething troubles. It’s a company effort, and the community feel of NETheatre shines through. 

But what of Our Wonka? Kit Stroud captures the eccentricities of the role well, and excels in the Act One close It Must Be Believed To Be Seen. A strong singer and engaging character actor, he doesn’t go as dark as Wilder or as weird as Depp. His Yorkshire shopkeeper candyman is clever, but meeting Wonka in the opening scene meant we missed the big reveal of the chocolatier that we were expecting. 

We’re treated to a live band, who hit all the right notes. This is the musical version of Charlie, which first premiered in the West End and has toured the UK. Interestingly though, there are also some film classics added such as Candy Man and I’ve Got a Golden Ticket. Pure Imagination is an audience favourite. 

The set is mostly projected, which is a smart choice for a non-professional company with a limited budget. Physical set-pieces add depth at points, from the Bucket family bedroom to whirring machines, a bathtub boat and even the iconic glass elevator. Effects like smoke, bubbles and lasers all add to the theatrical magic too.

Costumes work well overall, with plenty of colour and sparkle. The Oompa Loompas are cleverly realised with a variety of outfits to show off their diminished height! 

Good for families? Absolutely! Although worth mentioning that the demise of some of the ticket winners is a little less ‘sweet’ than in the films. No blood and gore though, and still all very silly. Expect toe-tapping songs, feelgood fun and no high ticket prices to…burst your bubble! 

The Joseph Rowntree Theatre is an ideal space for this production too, with great seats and a friendly, welcoming front of house team. Snacks and refreshments are on offer too including, you guessed it, chocolate!

We’ve seen professional productions of Charlie and, whilst it’s hard not to compare, the NETheatre team are full of energy and enthusiasm, and clearly loving the experience. 

Support local theatre and book your golden ticket at www.josephrowntreetheatre.co.uk

Disclaimer: Tickets were kindly provided for this performance, however all opinions are honest and are our own.