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If you grew up with the literary works of the iconic Roald Dahl, you’re in for a real treat this year! Matilda the Musical is currently running right across the border in Shenzhen, and it’s been confirmed that the Broadway production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is making its Hong Kong debut this November as well.
For the completely uninitiated who have never read the book, seen the Gene Wilder or Johnny Depp film adaptations, or the prequel movie with Timothée Chalamet, whose knowledge of this universe only encapsulates perhaps the Condescending Wonka meme, the plot follows a young boy named Charlie Bucket whose family lives in poverty. By chance, he discovers a golden ticket in a chocolate bar, gets invited to Willy Wonka’s fantastical chocolate factory, and embarks upon the adventure of a lifetime.
From quick-witted squirrels with jobs sorting nuts and a crazy factory filled with candy, mushrooms, and a flowing river of chocolate, to the iconic Oompa-Loompas, this musical is a dazzling production that has bewitched with eye-popping visuals, unforgettable characters, and music that will have you humming all the way home. Songs from the original 1971 film are also used in the show, such as ‘Pure Imagination’, ‘The Candy Man’, and ‘I’ve Got a Golden Ticket’, alongside new, original compositions by Grammy and Tony Award winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.
Adding to the sense of whimsy are the curious illusions and inventive stagecraft by Las Vegas magic and illusion specialist Tim Clothier, in a sprinkle of glitter that brings this fanciful world to life right on stage. The cast for the upcoming Hong Kong run is led by Daniel Plimpton as Willy Wonka and 10-year-old talent Oliver Wong as Charlie Bucket, supported by a lineup of seasoned Broadway performers.
Priority booking for American Express cardmembers is running until June 1, with exclusive savings of up to 15 percent on tickets. Pre-sales for the public will open from June 2, and ticket prices start from $388. Sign up at Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’s official website to be notified first about getting your own golden ticket.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory opens on November 4, at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre.
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