Review: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at La Comedia Dinner Theatre
Boasting a powerhouse lead performance by Dylan Jackson and dazzling backstage magic, La Comedia’s latest production is a golden ticket for the whole family.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Delivers a Sweet Feast of Imagination at La Comedia
Did someone say chocolate? If that…. nine-letter word is involved, count me in. Throw in some catchy songs, captivating visuals, and a little sweet potato soufflé, and you've got a golden ticket to paradise. For a show that satisfies your sweet tooth while tickling your funny bone, Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory delivers a delightful confection of entertainment.
A man of mystery, Willy Wonka is a wildly successful chocolatier surrounded by endless questions. How many licks it takes to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop isn't one of them. One thing is certain, though: Dylan Jackson wears Wonka's signature purple top hat exceptionally well. When I saw the cast list, I felt like a kid in a candy store, eager to see Jackson in his first leading role—and he did not disappoint. His knack for comedy has long been established, but Wonka allows him to showcase an even broader range of talents. Jackson reveals a more thoughtful, heartfelt side in several scenes, while his vocal ability shines, particularly during "Pure Imagination." Even while following the script, he has the rare ability to make his witty remarks feel spontaneous and improvised.
The role of Charlie Bucket, an imaginative boy with an extraordinary dream, is shared by Liam Cockerham and Sky Smyth. I can only speak to Cockerham's performance, but I have no doubt both young actors bring the same warmth and spirit to the role. It's a demanding part for a child, requiring both strong vocals and genuine emotional depth, and Cockerham rises to the occasion. Charlie's longing for a Golden Ticket and his sense of wonder upon entering the factory are both beautifully conveyed.
Life may be like a box of chocolates, but at La Comedia, you always know what you're going to get: a consistently strong cast. Nobody portrays revered characters quite like Ed Iverson, and his Grandpa Joe is no exception. With his gift for spinning tall tales and his infectious enthusiasm, Iverson is perfectly cast.
The lucky recipients of the coveted Golden Tickets each bring their own flavor to the story. Zachary Trenkle is instantly likable as the gluttonous Augustus Gloop, whose enormous appetite extends well beyond chocolate fountains. You almost wish Augustus stuck around a little longer before meeting his chocolatey fate. Aaralyn Schulte is delightfully spoiled as the demanding Veruca Salt, a ballerina destined for The Nutcracker, while Izzy Wesloh bursts onto the stage as Violet Beauregarde and proves she's truly berry good. Rounding out the group is Zane Tyler as television-obsessed Mike Teavee, whose oversized attitude—along with everything else—is eventually brought down to size.
The talented supporting cast is equally impressive. Taryn Jennifer Huffman brings warmth and tenderness to Mrs. Bucket, showcasing her beautiful voice during "If Your Father Were Here." Haley Iverson is a scene-stealer as the elderly, witch-like vegetable vendor. She plays the role with such conviction that I'd gladly watch another Church Basement Ladies production featuring her. Meghan Slowik provides plenty of laughs as Mrs. Teavee, while Steven Lakes looks every bit the wealthy Mr. Salt—if not a million bucks, then certainly his suit does. Matt Ebersbach is wonderfully animated as Mr. Beauregarde, and Allison Calabrese shines as the indulgent Frau Gloop. Completing the outstanding ensemble—and the ever-entertaining Oompa-Loompas—are Sierra Jones, Kenn Barton, D'Juliana Calzada, Olivia Cotton, Connor Czapor, Carley Payton, Noah Seibel, Jordan Wolfe, and a welcome returning face, David Thomas.
Parents and children alike will delight in exploring the world of pure imagination brought to life on stage. Our soon-to-be four-year-old twins thoroughly enjoyed the performance, though I probably wouldn't recommend it for children quite that young. One of the show's greatest achievements is the colorful, imaginative world created inside Wonka's factory. It's a production filled with staging challenges, and just when you find yourself wondering, How are they going to pull this off? They do. Time and again, the creative team finds a way, and the backstage crew deserves tremendous credit for bringing this visual feast to life.
Regular La Comedia patrons like myself may notice the absence of Jonathan Pendergrass onstage. A closer look at the program reveals that he's serving behind the scenes as a stagehand, proving that every role—both onstage and off—is essential to creating the magic.
On a personal note, two days after seeing the show, my soon-to-be four-year-old daughter wrapped herself in a blanket and said, "This is how Charlie's mom did it." It was a small but touching reminder that the performance had stayed with her in ways I hadn't expected. In the end, that's perhaps the sweetest compliment any production can receive.
🍫 Show information: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory thru August 9
