THEATER
New twist
on an old favorite
January 20, 2005
By
Anna Marie D'Addarie
Charlie, played by Caleb Gray (left), and Willie,
played by Robbie Osmers, rehearse for this weekendıs play, "Charlie
and the Chocolate Factory." Photos by Susan Safford
Robbie Osmers (left), Eliza Greene, and Caleb
Gray rehearse a scene from "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory."
This weekend there will be a special Dessert Café and
performance to benefit the students' trip in the spring.
Left to right) Eliza Greene, Robbie Osmers, Max
Berlow, Caleb Gray, and Sam Larsen are ready for Friday's opening
at the Martha's Vineyard Public Charter School. |
New twist on
an old favoriteBy Anna Marie D'AddarieWriter Roald Dahl's imaginative
works have delighted children for years. Certainly one of his most
popular books is “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”
This story of eccentric chocolate maker Willy Wonka and the five
lucky children who win a tour of his factory is a classic.
Mr. Dahl never adapted his work for the stage, but one day received
a version in the mail from a sixth- grade teacher who had written
it for his class. The teacher, Richard George, was seeking permission
to publish the play. Mr. Dahl read the play reluctantly, since past
experience told him it might be a waste of time. Much to the renowned
author's delight, Mr. George's play was just the right adaptation
and Mr. Dahl saw to its publication.
This weekend the Martha's Vineyard Public Charter School will perform
the play “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” Director
Heather Robbins said she was drawn to the play for many reasons.
The name appeal of the story is sure to draw large audiences. The
charter school uses the open library area to produce their shows
and Ms. Robbins liked the idea of bringing one of the books to life.
She also mentioned that a new movie version of “Charlie and
the Chocolate Factory” is due out this summer and students
can benefit from another version of the story.
The students have enjoyed working on the production. Charter school
students pick a subject they would like to work on for a two-week
“project period.” The performance will be the end of the
two-week process for the middle school students.
In an interview with cast members there was a great deal excitement
about the play. Cast members said they would like the audience to
come to the show without any preconceived notions because their
production differs from the movie version with Gene Wilder. The
charter school cast has made changes in the script to make this
production uniquely theirs.
The cast and crew have formed a tight-knit group and are very proud
of their play. They have worked together cooperatively, and individuals
have many roles in the overall production. For example, along with
appearing on stage, actors are building props and making scenery.
It is clear the students have claimed ownership of “Charlie
and the Chocolate Factory.” Cast member Max Martin promises
the audience will be surprised when they see the show.
“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” at the Martha's Vineyard
Public Charter School, Friday, Jan. 21, 7 pm, $6 or $20 for families;
and Saturday, Jan. 22, 6 pm, Dessert Café and show, $20 each,
benefits school trip.
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