Sweet success: Pupils dazzle in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
150 pupils took to the stage or worked behind the scenes as the Drama Department delivered exceptional performances of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’!
Over two external evening shows and one matinee show for Junior School pupils, 900 audience members were transported into a magical world full of amazement, innovation, sugary treats, and, of course, Oompa-Loompas!
The production is adapted by Richard George from Roald Dahl’s beloved 1964 novel, with numerous additional scenes written by our Director of Drama Mr Matt King-Sayce.
The world-famous Willy Wonka, played by Sixth Form pupil Hannah Johnson, opened the gates to his mysterious factory for five lucky Golden Ticket holders: Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde, Mike Teavee, Augustus Gloop and Charlie Bucket, as they learned valuable lessons from Mr Wonka.
Reflecting on the success of the production, Mr King-Sayce said: “I am incredibly proud of how this production has come together. It is the culmination of seven and a half weeks of hard work – that is a tight turnaround.
“The pupils from all seven Senior School year groups have formed some powerful relationships and have really risen to the challenge, including our 58 Oompa Loompas – when else do you get that opportunity?”
Hannah Johnson remarked that “it has been such a tremendous experience for my final play” whilst, at the other end of the spectrum, First Year Seb McKinnon, who played Charlie Bucket, added: “This is my first play here at Stockport Grammar – I have had such an outstanding experience, and the cast were just wonderful!”
The audience were full of praise of what they saw on stage.
Rachel Vincent commented: “It was fantastic! Well done all of you – such a great production” and Amy Tyrrell-Marsh added: “A superb evening, well done to all involved!”
Emma Lowther lauded the show as “incredible” and was mesmerised by the acting of Violet Beauregarde and the Oompa-Loompas.
