Delish Charlie at Marriott

The Marriott Theatre's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was a delightful theatrical treat for audiences of all ages. This Theatre for Young Audiences production brings Roald Dahl’s beloved story to life with imagination, heart, and just the right amount of stage magic.

I brought my five-year-old son along, who has very strong opinions about all things Willy Wonka, especially when it comes to performances. His gold standard has long been Timothée Chalamet’s portrayal, but I’m happy to report that George Keating has officially earned a spot on his list of favorite Wonkas. That’s high praise from a tough (and tiny) critic.

One of the most memorable moments was the transformation into the chocolate factory itself. It felt both fantastical and wonderfully accessible, as if the magic unfolding onstage could be recreated by children using nothing more than imagination and treasures from their own toy boxes. The glowing screens surrounding the audience added another layer of enchantment, lighting up throughout the show and drawing kids deeper into Wonka’s world so they felt inside the story, not just watching it.

My son’s personal highlight was the costume magic that turned Violet into an over-juiced blueberry, a theatrical trick that sparked equal parts laughter and awe. As a children’s theatre practitioner, my favorite moment actually came after the curtain call during the Q&A. Hearing the audience’s questions, almost entirely focused on how the actors disappeared, shrank, or swam away in a chocolate river, was a beautiful reminder that the show didn’t just entertain; it ignited curiosity, wonder, and a desire to understand the magic behind the magic.

Overall, this production captures the true spirit of the story: imagination is powerful, theatre is transformative, and sometimes the most extraordinary worlds begin with a simple spark of wonder.

Directed and choreographed by Amber Mak, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory plays now through March 28th at Marriott Theatre at 10 Marriott Drive in Lincolnshire Illinois. Tickets and more information at https://www.marriotttheatre.com/show/charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory.

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