A World Of Pure Imagination

Starring Michael Ball as Willy Wonka!

Based on the classic book by Roald Dahl, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a spectacular journey into the weird and wonderful world of candy impresario Willy Wonka, as West End king Michael Ball brings his magic to the eccentric chocolatier in a brand-new production directed by Curve artistic director Nikolai Foster. The production will begin at Curve in Leicester before transferring to London, marking the musical's return to the West End for the first time since its previous production played at Theatre Royal Drury Lane from 2013 to 2017. Don't miss your chance to get hold of a Golden Ticket and see Michael Ball in his deliciously sweet element!

Expect a spectacular new take on the beloved story, complete with a score featuring music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman, alongside some of the songs that have become synonymous with Wonka, including "Pure Imagination", "The Candy Man" and "I've Got a Golden Ticket".

What's The Story, Charlie?

Reclusive inventor Willy Wonka is opening the doors to his world-famous chocolate factory, but only five lucky children will be allowed in. To win a place, they must discover one of the five golden tickets hidden inside the wrapper of a Wonka bar. To enter Wonka's factory would be a dream come true for young Charlie Bucket, but given neither he nor his grandparents, who take care of him, can afford a Wonka Bar, it seems like a dream that will never come true. That is until one day when a couple carelessly drop some money, which lands at Charlie's feet. Rushing into the nearest shop, Charlie buys a solitary Wonka bar and, lo and behold, there's something gold glittering under the wrapper.

And so Charlie is one of the chosen few who steps into the chocolate factory, a realm of candy-covered delights and confectionery beyond your wildest dreams.

Did You Know?

While it is now considered a family favourite, the 1971 movie version received a mixed reaction upon its release, not least of all from Roald Dahl himself. The author was not a fan of Gene Wilder's portrayal of Willy Wonka, and would have much preferred his actor of choice, Spike Milligan, to have played the part.