Review by Jeanne Kinley Deller

Willy Wonka lives! The current tour of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is one awesome production – how can live theatre be this crazy, funny, dazzling, and thoroughly astounding? The brilliant special effects are far more sophisticated than seem possible on any stage – might it be pure magic? The most riveting dynamics are elevated to mind-blowing heights in the second act. Wait for it!

Accolades to Noah Weisberg who exceeds every lofty expectation in his depiction of Willy Wonka. Equal laurels go to Rueby Wood for an endearing portrayal of the precocious Charlie Bucket. We were enamored with Rueby (who shares the coveted role with two other young actors in this tour) on opening night. 

In hot pursuit of the Golden Ticket, convoluted family ties result in utter pandemonium as the superlative cast sings and dances its way into the heart of the audience. One need not fear the beguiling Oompa Loompas, Willy Wonka, nor the perils of a chocolate factory that casts off naughty children. The night is filled with all things remarkable, including jaw-dropping escapades galore. 

Throngs of theatre-goers, while exiting the theatre and waiting in line to validate parking tickets, were left wondering how “THAT” (you’ll know it when you see it! worked. You know the old adage – when patrons exit the theatre discussing the show you know it’s a winner! You, too, can be enveloped in “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” charms. Your golden tickets are on sale now through August 11, 2019, at The Paramount Theatre in downtown Seattle.

Students & Educators, check out Broadway at the Paramount’s Facebook page for info on rush tickets.
Photo by Joan Marcus