Children's Theatre of Elgin presents 'Willy Wonka Jr.'

Come along on a sweet and magical musical tour of the mysterious Wonka Chocolate Factory as Children's Theatre of Elgin presents "Willy Wonka Jr." this weekend.

Shows are 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Nov. 18-19, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 20, at the Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. The musical is based on Roald Dahl's classic children's story "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory."

Audiences will join four wonderfully bratty children, and their equally obnoxious parents, as they receive Golden Tickets to explore the sights inside Mr. Wonka's famous candy factory.

Only one polite, young man named Charlie Bucket stands out among the other children. Who will obey the rules and discover Mr. Wonka's greatest secret?

When asked about the challenges in putting this show together, director and CTE alum Allison Cherry responded, "Magic on a budget. 'Willy Wonka' encompasses several chocolate rooms, which are all supposed to be colorful and magical, which is a very difficult task to do, especially when on a small budget."

But, she says, she has confidence in her young actors and their abilities.

"It's also a show that requires some huge lead roles, which are all being played by young children - when normally played by adults or high schoolers, at the very least - but they definitely rose to the occasion.

The cast consists of 84 kids in grades two through nine.

"Although I am still running into problems making the lights, set and sound all come together, one thing I've never had to worry about is this amazing, dedicated and extremely mature for their age cast," Cherry said.

"It's a huge relief when I don't have to worry about them. I couldn't be more proud."

"Willy Wonka" features such memorable songs as "Pure Imagination," "The Candy Man," "Cheer-up Charlie," "I've Got a Golden Ticket," and the hilarious tune of the Oompa Loompas.

Tickets to this family-friendly show are $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors. Visit cteelgin.com for tickets.