Students at Lynbrook North Middle School took audiences on a sweet adventure as they performed Willy Wonka Jr. during three evening shows on Thursday, March 5, Friday, March 6, and Saturday, March 7, each at 7 p.m.
The musical, based on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl, was tailored specifically for middle school performers. The production included well-known songs from the film such as “The Candy Man,” “The Golden Ticket,” and the Oompa Loompa numbers, along with additional songs written specifically for the stage adaptation.
The show is distributed by Music Theatre International, which received permission from Dahl’s estate to adapt the story and create new music for the production.
Anthony Carollo, the chorus teacher at North Middle School, directed the musical for the 20th time this year.
“The students love it,” Carollo said. “It’s a strong ensemble piece where lots of students have a chance to shine, and it’s filled with humor.”
Rehearsals took place daily from 3 to 6 p.m. in the weeks leading up to the performances. To help keep the cast energized during the long rehearsal days, the students were treated to a pizza party before opening night.
The production featured Lily Elena as Willy Wonka, Will Luzzi as Charlie Bucket, and Ely Colon as Grandpa Joe.
According to Carollo, the story also offers an important lesson for young performers and audiences alike.
“Willy Wonka gives a good moral lesson to the students,” he said. “It says actions have consequences, and being humble and honest will reward you in life.”
