Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (SG 2026)
You don’t need a Golden Ticket to enter Wonka’s factory! 🏭🍫✨
This production of Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory incorporates a new score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (of Hairspray fame), alongside beloved songs from the 1971 classic film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory, including “The Candy Man”, “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket”, “Pure Imagination”, and “The Oompa Loompa Song”.
Daniel Plimpton brings an eccentric yet surprisingly human portrayal of Willy Wonka — aloof and mysterious, yet still warm enough to ground the character beneath his chaotic exterior. Oliver Wong is incredibly endearing as Charlie Bucket, sharing lovely chemistry with Steve McCoy’s Grandpa Joe. I also particularly enjoyed Jill-Christine Wiley’s rendition of “If Your Father Were Here”, which was one of the more touching moments of the show.
Interestingly, the other Golden Ticket winners are portrayed by adults in this adaptation, giving the show a slightly different tone and allowing more of Roald Dahl’s darker humour to come through. The production also makes creative use of projections that extend into the auditorium, combined with effects like bubbles, to create a more immersive theatrical experience. 🫧
🗓️ 19 May – 14 Jun 2026
📍 Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands
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Attending the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory musical in Singapore provides a uniquely immersive experience that modern audiences will truly appreciate. Unlike traditional adaptations that keep the golden ticket winners as children, this production casts adults in those roles, which gives the narrative a richer tone that captures more of Roald Dahl’s infamous dark humor. This approach not only deepens the storytelling but also invites mature reflection on the characters’ flaws and lessons. One of the most memorable elements is the new musical score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, well-known for their work on Hairspray. Their compositions complement the beloved songs from the 1971 classic film, such as “The Candy Man”, “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket”, “Pure Imagination” and “The Oompa Loompa Song,” creating a nostalgic yet fresh soundscape. Marveling at Jill-Christine Wiley’s touching “If Your Father Were Here” adds emotional depth that lingers well after the curtain falls. The creative use of technology significantly enhances the spectacle. Projections extend beyond the stage into the auditorium, captivating the audience’s imagination, while whimsical effects like bubbles bring the fantastical world of Wonka’s factory to life. This multisensory experience makes the show especially captivating for families and fans of all ages. Moreover, the charismatic portrayal of Willy Wonka by Daniel Plimpton balances mystery and warmth, inviting the audience into his eccentric world without losing the human connection. The dynamic chemistry between Oliver Wong's Charlie Bucket and Steve McCoy’s Grandpa Joe adds a layer of heartwarming authenticity to the story’s core. For anyone planning to visit, note that the run is from 19 May to 14 June 2026 at the Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands. Keep an eye out during the show for the surprise golden tickets hidden beneath seats, offering lucky winners special treats—a clever nod to the story’s original charm. Whether you’re a longtime Roald Dahl fan or discovering the beloved tale anew, this production promises a magical adventure filled with wonder, imagination, and unforgettable musical moments.
