GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) - City High Middle School Theater is bringing Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka to life in a production packed with theatrical magic, outstanding stagecraft, and pure imagination.
From the moment the action begins, audiences are treated to a feast of creativity, movement, and surprises. And much like Wonka’s chocolate factory, there's something extraordinary around every corner. Simply look around, and you’ll see it!
But the real magic of this production goes beyond what audiences see on stage. It's happening behind the scenes, too—and it's all student-led. After approximately 10 weeks of preparation, 112 scholars have come together to create this production, taking the lead in every aspect of the show, from performing and choreography to the technical elements and set design that bring Wonka's world to life.
“Everything you see is done completely by our students,” theater director Jamie Bott shared during Thursday’s in-school performance. That creativity was on full display for hundreds of audience members, including busloads of students from Coit Creative Arts Academy, who attended Thursday’s student show.
In addition to lots of singing and dancing, the production features inventive lighting and sound effects, impressive set changes, and movement throughout the auditorium. By bringing the action beyond the stage and into the audience, performers break the fourth wall and invite everyone into Wonka’s extraordinary world.
It's a remarkable showcase of student talent, teamwork, and imagination, with all 112 scholars contributing their skills across the cast and crew. Every detail helps create a larger-than-life experience, and the result celebrates not only the magic of theater, but also what students can accomplish when they take ownership of their art.
Cohen Bloem takes on the iconic role of Willy Wonka, while Jack Morgan stars as Charlie Bucket, the lucky golden ticket winner whose adventure leads him into Wonka's remarkable world. Camilo Sloan-Caldera plays Grandpa Joe, joining Charlie for the journey of a lifetime.
The other golden ticket winners bringing the factory to life include Augustus Gloop (Peter Broberg), Veruca Salt (Naomi Oldenberg), Violet Beauregarde (Marlena Kubiszewski), and Mike Teavee (Lou Kampfschulte).
Ready to step into Wonka's world? There are three chances to experience the magic this weekend. Tickets can be purchased here: https://linktr.ee/cityhighmusicaltheater.
- Friday, November 13 at 7 p.m. at City High Middle School
- Saturday, November 14 at 7 p.m. at City High Middle School
- Sunday, November 15 at 2 p.m. at City High Middle School
