Charlie and the Chocolate Factory enjoyed successful seasons in both Sydney and Melbourne in 2019, before it was due to open in Brisbane in May last year. Postponed when COVID-19 hit, it has finally opened. The production (presented here by QPAC in association with John Frost) is based on the original Broadway version, closely mirroring the beloved 1971 Gene Wilder film. It is exactly the type of heart-warming and uplifting story with a ‘happily-ever-after ending’ that we probably all need to cheer us up in these miserable times and could not have landed here at a more opportune moment. Certainly, the response on opening night at the Lyric Theatre in QPAC was one of palpable excitement, with the audience on board from the first orchestral note through to the standing ovation at the end. 

Stephen Anderson and the cast of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Photo © Darren Thomas.

Roald Dahl’s story of young Charlie Bucket, a connoisseur of chocolate and a devotee of the Willy Wonka brand and all that entails, is well-known and loved by children everywhere....