“Come with me, and you’ll be in a world of pure imagination” is the opening line to the most iconic song from the film/show and director Sarah Scotcher truly did that. Her vision and directorial experience truly brought this show alive! Her direction allowed for a near-perfect flow but the scenery had other plans… This was, in its truest form, a masterclass on how to stage a production.
This Easter you will be transported to a wonderful world of pure imagination as you follow the story of Charlie, a young dreamer, and Willy Wonka, a candy and Wonka chocolate maker, who opens his factory up to 5 lucky Golden Ticket winners!
We follow the story of young Charlie Bucket, played confidently and with pure, sweet innocence, by Noah Walker-Green (Ed: Noah taking the lead role on this opening night, sharing the role with Oliver Back). His stage presence is truly unquestionable and his lines, and songs, delivered with such professionalism. It’s hard not to love Noah’s portrayal of Charlie as he commands each scene he’s in. He was a joy to watch.
We first meet Wonka, played by the exceptionally talented and versatile Daniel Farmer. Dan’s comedic timing and strong acting expertise allows for a confident, funny and loveable Wonka, CEO of the factory. Dan was utterly captivating. “Pure Imagination” and “The View From here” displayed the true vulnerability of Wonka and just how amazing Dan is!
We are introduced to our Golden Ticket winners by Luke Cumberpatch and Izzi Rudd. We are first introduced to Mrs Gloop and Augustus Gloop, played by Olivia Pike and Finley Revert, who were so entertaining. The energy and comedy brought to the roles were top notch.
We next meet Mr Salt, played with aplomb by Andy Kay and his daughter Veruca Salt, played by Ava Cowen, who was absolutely ‘on pointe’. Andy gave a few perfectly timed one liners which had everyone chuckling away!
The Beauregardes, played by Beth Mansell (Mrs Beauregarde) and Ellie Walker (Violet Beauregarde), were every bit the part! They really knew how to ‘capture the moment’. What a wonderfully great performance.
Mrs Teavee was played by the talented and amazing Emily Scotcher and her on stage son Mike Teavee played with attitude and assurance by Kieran Adams. Emily’s poise and grace made for a stand out performance while Kieran dominated as a bratty young man.
Abigail Hennings gave a believable and delightful performance as Mrs Bucket. Her vocals were stunning with a raw, emotional tone that left most of us teary eyed!
Let’s not forget Grandpa Joe, played by Paul Stevens! Paul is no stranger to the stage and he was able to deliver the role with conviction. The rest of the family were played by Amanda Gregory, Maureen Sullivan and David Kent who added their lines brilliantly.
As we take a tour of the factory we explore Wonka’s world. The spectacular way this was brought to life by the staging, the music and the strong ensemble absolutely lifted this show to a whole new level and Izzi Rudd’s choreography was done with absolute perfection. Well done on your Savoyards debut, as choreographer, and for the amazing way you moved the cast! Perfection!
The music/orchestra, directed by Andrew Woodford, was just remarkable. The sound, at times slightly too loud, was just amazing to hear! The sound supported the cast in every possible way. The strong ensemble gave every bit the professional sound we know The Savoyards are well known for.
I entered Shanklin theatre knowing I was in for a great evening of Island theatre but I left feeling, not just entertained, but utterly blown away and proud to know we have so much talent on our little island!
Review: Rob Bingham
Photos: Rodger Hooper
