The first performances of Wellesley Theatre Project’s summer production of Willy Wonka KIDS ran July 17 and 18 at the Sorenson Center for the Arts at Babson College. I attended the 7:30pm performance on July 17, which featured the Golden Cast. For a production put together in just two weeks, it was organized, well paced, and impressively executed.
The show is a short version of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and runs about 35 minutes. It features students in grades 2 through 8, many of whom brought energy and individuality to their roles.
Sarah Benson played Charlie Bucket with honesty and steady focus. One memorable scene took place in the Bucket Shack, when Charlie learned he’d found the golden ticket. Sarah Benson’s expression shifted from disbelief to awe, effectively capturing the moment.
Casie Skarwitz, in the role ofWilly Wonka, stayed fully in character, moving with intention and delivering her lines with theatrical flair. In the factory entrance scene, set to “At the Gates (Pure Imagination),” Skarwitz led the group confidently.
The cast also brought enthusiasm to the early ensemble number “(I’ve Got A) Golden Ticket,” which helped to introduce the world of the show.
The ensemble stayed engaged even in background moments, adding character to the imaginary world. The group playing the other Golden Ticket winners kept their scenes moving with good timing and expression. The Oompa Loompa numbers were well-rehearsed and visually strong, especially in the group choreography sections where spacing and rhythm were consistent.
Direction by Lydia Jane Furlong kept the story moving at a steady pace. Assistant Director Clara Robinson helped build specific character choices across the cast. Music Director Amber Crossman ensured that vocals stayed on pitch and on time. Choreographer Kennedy VanCleve created movement that matched the cast’s ability level and kept the visual flow of the show strong. The choreography worked especially well during ensemble songs where many cast members were on stage at once.
The production featured colorful sets and creative costumes that brought the world of the chocolate factory to life. Bright lighting and clear sound cues enhanced each scene, and transitions were cleverly handled by the Oompa Loompas.
Willy Wonka KIDS was an example of how WTP gives young performers real experience in how a show comes together. From learning lines and music to understanding stage movement and timing, students had the chance to go through the full process. The final result was a performance that reflected their work and the consistent support of the creative team.
Upcoming Performances of Willy Wonka KIDS
New casts will perform on:
- August 7 at 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM
- August 8 at 5:00 PM and 7:30 PM
All shows take place at the Sorenson Center for the Arts, 19 Babson College Dr., Wellesley
Runtime: 35 minutes
Rated G
Tickets and info available at wellesleytheatreproject.org or by emailing info@wellesleytheatreproject.org
Other Upcoming WTP Shows at Sorenson Center for the Arts:
James and the Giant Peach JR
- July 24 and 25 at 5:00 PM
- July 26 at 2:00 PM
- August 14 and 15 at 5:00 PM
- August 16 at 2:00 PM
Rated PG
Runtime: 65 minutes
Spring Awakening
- July 24-26 at 8:00 PM
Rated R
Runtime: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Beetlejuice JR
- August 14 and 15 at 8:00 PM
- August 16 at 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM
- August 17 at 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM
Please send tips, photos, ideas to theswellesleyreport@gmail.com
