Orpheus Musical Theatre - Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Programme
Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 1X4
613 729 4318
Orpheus Musical Theatre has been entertaining Ottawa audiences since 1906 That's not a typo. We're old! Orpheus is here to produce, perform and promote high-quality musical theatre for the community through our ability to nurture performers and production personnel, both on and off stage.
If you have an artistic need - we can probably help you out We rent out our costumes, props, and facilities
If you have artistic talent - we want you. There's always a need for volunteers to help put a show together.
Other questions? Reach us at info@orpheusmusicaltheatre.ca
LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Orpheus Musical Theatre acknowledges that we perform and operate on the unceded, unsurrendered Territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin Nation whose presence here reaches back to time immemorial. We honour their long history of welcoming many Nations to this beautiful territory and uphold and uplift the voice and values of our Host Nation
Orpheus acknowledges the historical oppression of lands, cultures, and the original Peoples in what we now know as Canada and fervently believes the Arts contribute to the healing and decolonizing journey we all share together.
Orpheus thanks Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe and the Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe Volunteer Company.
Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe is owned by the Corporation of the City of Ottawa and operated by the Recreation, Culture and Facility Services Branch Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe operates with the generous assistance of the Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe Volunteer Company
While you are free to enjoy a beverage from the bar in the auditorium, food is not permitted.
Please be advised that Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe is a scent-free environment We appreciate you refraining from the use of scented products
Latecomers will be seated at the discretion of the ushers.
The video or audio recording of this performance by any means is strictly prohibited Upon infringement of this policy, admission privileges are automatically rescinded
Please ensure that cell phones, pagers, wristwatch alarms and other noisemakers cannot sound during the performance. At the end of the performance, please remain at your seat until the curtain call is finished and the house lights have been turned on.
Orpheus Musical Theatre
Book by David Greig
Music by Marc Shaiman Lyrics by Scott Wittman
Marc Shaiman
Based on the novel by ROALD DAHL
Songs from the Motion Picture by LESLIE BRICUSSE and ANTHONY NEWLEY
FEATURING
Sam Castro | Matthew Michael Lorz | Allison Helmer | Laurence Stassen | Karsten Skeries | Julie Heath
Tegan Stassen | Cody Zulinski | Hazel Stanfield | Pablo Castro | Carson Cameron | Kelly Fuoco
Maureen Quinn McGovern | Jim Tanner | Guylaine Roy | Katie Miller | Marc Reside | Kendra Thompson
CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI) All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI www mtishows com
Donations Made between April 1 - November 1, 2024
Show Stopper ($1000 +)
You Will Never Be Forgotten!: The Baxter Family, Rev Rick & Laura Burk, Jean Liberty, Mr & Mrs David Paterson
Triple Threat ($500 - $999)
You Are One of the Few!: Maureen Acres, J T Morris, Eugene Oscapella In Memory of Edward, Elisabeth & Edward Philip Oscapella
Legendary Producer ($250 - $499)
You Build Our Future!: Susan & Jake Cole, Don Bradt, Bob Bridges, Tanya Chang, Maybelle Chapleau, Judy Froome, Allison Hamilton, Rod Holmes: past Musical Director, Dr Ernst B Jacobsen, Brian Kelly, Andrea Kinsley & Matthew Guindon, Sally Mc, Kerry McConnery, John McGovern & Maureen Quinn McGovern, Michelle O’Brien, Barry Sims
Backstage Champion ($150 - $249)
You Create Theatre Magic!: Carol Chamberlain, John Litster, Arlo & Maureen Speer, Andrew & Louise Travill
Star Performer ($100 - $149)
You Are Invaluable!: Sandy & Angela Dale, The Grimsey Family, Kathryn Palmer, Erynn Paton, Cynthia Sanoy
Get Your Name in Here as a Donor!
As an Orpheus Donor, 100% of your donation goes toward supporting high quality community musical theatre and artistic development that is accessible for all in Ottawa Whether it is to help to create the intricate costumes and large sets you see on stage, or to support youth seeking arts education at free or affordable rates, your donation makes it all possible
Our online donation portal is flexible and geared toward suiting all budgets and schedules, including monthly and annually recurring options
To Learn More about our Donor Program
Contact Managing Director, J T Morris jt@orpheusmusicaltheatre.ca
Product sponsors Partners
Become an Orpheus Sponsor!
Investing in the arts is good business! Put you and your company centre stage as part of our community. With a patron base of up to 25,000 and over 300 volunteers annually, there are many ways for your company to engage current customers and reach new audiences in an entertaining way Read on to learn about the benefits you may receive from supporting a 117 year old organization with an established, loyal base.
To Learn More about Sponsorship Opportunities
Contact Managing Director J T Morris jt@orpheusmusicaltheatre.ca
Board of Directors
Neil Monkman, Chair
It seems like only yesterday that we were all together traveling from Kansas to Oz and back again A new season is upon us, and it promises to be as exciting and entertaining as last year’s.
We begin with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, a wonderful story about some of everyone's favourites: candies and chocolate (you can NEVER have too much chocolate I am told) Of equal importance, the power of imagination Charlie learns that with the power of pure imagination he can do anything, from helping his family to achieving things that he had never dreamed possible And it can all taste so delicious when done with the assistance of the "Candy Man"
We at Orpheus are thrilled to have you here with us for our 118th year. I hope that you will join us again later this season for Beautiful: The Carole King Musical and The Music Man. If you don't yet have your subscription, you can still do so through the box office
So, please sit back and let us entertain you, because what can be better than a story where you can even eat the dishes!
J.T. Morris Managing Director
Hannah Gorham-Smith Director of Member Development
Neil Cachero Vice Chair
James Baxter Treasurer
Vanessa Schwarz Recruitment Director
Debbie Guilbeault Secretary
Debbie Miller-Smith Director Without Portfolio
Micah Jondel DeShazer Director At Large
Jesse Gervais-Weedmark Director At Large
Directors
Ellen Séguin Director
Ellen is excited to be directing her first Orpheus show. Ellen has worked with several different theatre organizations in Ottawa Some of her directing credits include Elf, Sister Act, Cinderella, Willy Wonka and The Rat Pack Lounge Ellen would like to thank the other members of the directing team, Gabe, Rachel, and Anna, as well as the rest of the incredible production team, and countless volunteers and cast members who helped to put together this fabulous show
A special shout out goes to Sue and Elaine who started her on the journey to live out her directing dreams. Finally to all the dreamers, imagineers, and creators: Never stop believing that your dreams can come true!
Gabe Leury
Music Director
This is Gabe’s 27th show with Orpheus, and seventh as MD. Select music direction credits include Victor/Victoria, Hairspray, Sister Act (Orpheus), Godspell, La Cage aux Folles (Suzart), Lucky Stiff, Drowsy Chaperone, Urinetown (All Saints CHS) He has played Electric Bass in the pit for several shows and cabarets with Orpheus, Zucchini Productions, Ottawa Musicals, ASNY, Suzart, Greely Players, and other community and high school shows Gabe is a Music Teacher at OCSB
and a proud OECTA member Outside of theatre and work, Gabe is an avid board gamer and music listener He thanks two of his besties, Joanne and Steve, who continue to excel at what they do and who always provide levity and focus when Gabe is sometimes off-task. It was a pleasure working with such an amazing production team, and of course with Murray, Ellen, Rachel, and Anna, whose creativity and professionalism continue to inspire.
Rachel
Myrah Choreographer the Carleton Engineering Musical Society, being involved as a dancer and choreographer. Now working as a software developer, she is grateful to have so many opportunities in Ottawa to stay involved in musical theatre and performing arts Rachel would like to thank everyone in the cast, crew, and production team for making this such a joyful experience, and a special thank you to Debbie Guilbeault for her support and mentorship throughout this production
Rachel is thrilled to be working with Orpheus for a third season, marking her first show as choreographer! You may have seen her on stage as ‘Neleus’ in Mary Poppins, ‘The Jitterbug’ in The Wizard of Oz, or ‘Egg #7’ in Something Rotten! (Orpheus). Rachel grew up training in competitive dance including many styles such as tap, jazz, ballet, and contemporary She found a love for musical theatre while attending Carleton University for Software Engineering, through
Stephen Pankiewicz Rehearsal Accompanist
This is Stephen's 6th show with Orpheus after enthusiastically playing piano for The Addams Family, Shrek, Priscilla - Queen of the Desert, Matilda and Newsies By day, Steve is in the twilight years of his high school teaching career You'll also find him performing on the piano for the Oh Canada Eh! Dinner Show and other musical theatre productions around Ottawa Steve would like to thank his wife, Melanie and six-year-old son Octavian for being so forgiving with his intense rehearsal schedule.
Anna Séguin Assistant to the Director just finished a production of Sweeney Todd (Paper Moon Theatre - NAC) in October, where they were producer and props designer. Anna would like to thank their partner Mike for the love and support during this and all their productions
Anna (They/Them) is a 29-year-old Ottawa Catholic School Board teacher who has been doing theatre for the last 20 years They are so excited to work with this fantastic production team to put on one of their favourite stories! As a graduate of St Lawrence College’s Music Theatre Performance Program, they have participated on and off stage in various capacities, including directing, choreographing, costumes, props, stage management, and all performance levels They
Designers
Tony Walker Set Designer & Scenic Artist
Tony has thoroughly enjoyed the learning experiences that have expanded from painting and construction crews to Scenic Artist & Set Design over the past 30 Orpheus shows he has been involved with Seeing the set emerge from drawings to built and painted pieces of scenery, is very rewarding Tony is indebted to the build, props and paint crews for their expertise Enjoy the show
Hannah Gorham-Smith Co-Costume Designer
Hannah’s sweet tooth has been a lifelong affair she even had candy-themed pajamas as a kid so the chance to co-design costumes for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was too delicious to resist! Previously, you may have seen her somewhere over the rainbow as the props designer for The Wizard of Oz (Orpheus). Hannah is over the moon to be working with such a talented cast and crew, especially her fabulous co-designer, Jessica. She sends a huge thank you to her parents for all their love and endless support
Jessica Mayenburg Co-Costume Designer
Jessica couldn't be more excited to kick off her second season with Orpheus! After volunteering as a sewist and dresser for Mary Poppins and Dreamgirls, she debuted as Wardrobe Supervisor and co-Costume Production Manager for The Wizard of Oz Co-designing this show with Hannah has been a blast, embracing all its whimsical and fantastical moments! Huge thanks to Nicole, Elena, Susan, and Sandy, and to every volunteer at Orpheus House your hard work is the heart of this production. Jessica is thrilled to be part of such a dedicated community and can't wait to see the magic come to life!
Bill McLaughlin
Lighting Designer
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is Bill’s fifth production with Orpheus Previous productions include Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Newsies, Mary Poppins and The Wizard of Oz Other recent credits include Opening Night, Savannah Sipping Society (Kanata Theatre), Holmes and Watson (Ottawa Little Theatre) and Hairspray and Oliver! (Suzart). Bill has designed lighting for professional and amateur productions in Kincardine, Oakville, and Toronto
Jonah Molinski
Sound Designer
Happy to be back behind the mixing board, Jonah is ecstatic to be doing sound at the chocolate factory! He has a strong passion for musical theatre and sound design Jonah also does freelance sound work all over town. You can catch him at various venues where you’ll know he’s at the mixing board when the band calls out “Hey Jonah, can you…” jonah.molinski.ca jonah@molinski.ca
Ann-Marie Haley Properties Designer
This is Ann-Marie's debut as a props designer in community theatre, and she’s ready to whip up some Oompa Loompa magic! Since joining Orpheus last year, she’s crafted props for Mary Poppins, Dreamgirls, and The Wizard of Oz talk about a golden ticket! She’s also enjoyed some mischief backstage with TotoToo on A New Brain and plans to volunteer for more shows. AnnMarie extends a huge thank you to her incredible props team, cast, and crew for their dedication, inspiration, and endless laughs—let’s make this production sweeter than Willy Wonka’s candy factory!
Dalene Gallo Hair & Make-Up Designer
Dalene has been a makeup artist for longer than she will admit. Her artistic journey started in BC taking Fine Arts in college, evolving into a passion for working on live canvases During her first show, Alice in Wonderland in 2009, she caught the theatre bug and has been designing since The energy, chaos and transformation that takes place backstage is as magical as the on stage performances Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a favourite book, and Dalene is so excited to be able to work with this cast and crew to help bring it to life in a new and exciting way.
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Production Team
Murray Doggett Production Manager
Murray is fortunate to have taken on the role of Production Manager for such a terrific show. Working with a tremendously dedicated production team and talented cast made the experience wonderfully memorable He sends a special shoutout to Production Assistant Joanne Thiessen for using her spectacular organizational and communication skills to keep the ‘Factory’ running smoothly This has been an exciting Orpheus year of firsts for Murray - first time Co-Set Designer for Dreamgirls, first time on stage in almost a decade in The Wizard of Oz, and first time Production Manager. He eagerly awaits what next year brings! “Hugs to Pauline"
Joanne Thiessen Production Assistant
Joanne is delighted to return as Production Assistant for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and is excited for you to join the quest for the Golden Ticket! While she volunteers in other roles at Orpheus, her last shows as PA were Shrek in 2017 and The Addams Family in 2016 Joanne enjoyed working in the ‘Factory’ with this wonderful cast and crew and is thrilled to once again work alongside one of her best friends, Gabe She extends her gratitude to all the volunteers who made the show possible and to her supportive husband Chris, who you’ll hear in the orchestra
Heather Forsyth Stage Manager
Heather has been working behind the scenes with local arts groups for over 30 years: Company Musical Theatre, JCC Theatreworks, Lakeside Players, GOYA, Greely Players, Kemptville Players, Nepean Choir, Catholic Education Foundation, TotoToo Theatre, Pellegrini Opera, ASNY, as well as Savoy Society for 10 consecutive seasons She has worked with Orpheus since 1999 playing a variety of backstage roles including Stage Manager and Wireless Specialist Outside of Orpheus, she enjoys hunting for unique antiques at country auctions
Monique Ecroyd Assistant Stage Manager
Mo is delighted that you’ve “got a golden ticket” and thanks you for supporting community theatre. She is an Early Childhood Educator and has been volunteering “in the dark” since high school. Mo often designs props for Orpheus as well as other local theatre companies. But, for this production, she is marking a return to one of her favourite roles - Assistant Stage Manager The last time Mo was an ASM for Orpheus was for The Addams Family in 2016 She loves helping to lead the “choreography” that happens with the set pieces in the wings and on the stage
Marc Séguin
Assistant Stage Manager / Projection Designer
Marc is excited to be on the Production team for this amazing show with Orpheus He has been working backstage and onstage in various productions over the last 20 years Most recent works include SM on Baskerville and Just So (Kanata Theatre), Sound for Elf The Musical (Suzart), Offstage Vocal Work in Yes I Can (Maple Leaf Productions) and Lumiere in Beauty and the Beast (ASNY) When not working directly on a show, Marc can be found volunteering at Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe in a technical capacity on the stage crew
Come Learn with Orpheus!
Orpheus offers apprenticeship opportunities in all its departments You will be paired with an experienced mentor in the discipline of your choice who will guide you through the process and teach you all the ins and outs of putting on an Orpheus production Become an artist with Canada's longest running community musical theatre
To learn more about Orpheus Apprenticeships, contact recruitment@orpheusmusicaltheatre.ca
Production Team
Graham Galway Technical Director
Graham is excited to be Technical Director for Charlie and The Chocolate Factory Graham has been TD Orpheus’ previous productions of Shrek: The Musical, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, The Last Five Years, and Mary Poppins When not working backstage Graham can be found in the Chemistry Department at Carleton U as a Lab Coordinator. He has greatly enjoyed working with the Production Team and Cast to bring “Wonka Wackiness” to the stage. Thanks to all the volunteers who helped. Thanks to Maritie and Menolly for support and the time away from you both
Nicole Boyle
Costume Production Manager / Wardrobe Supervisor
A performer at heart, Nicole recently danced in the ensemble of Orpheus' enchanting production of Mary Poppins Captivated by Orpheus' vibrant costume room, she eagerly volunteered with sewing and dressing for subsequent shows Dreamgirls and The Wizard of Oz Now, she's excited to take on a leadership role alongside Jessica and Hannah, ready to bring their creative visions to life on stage. An intellectual property lawyer by trade, working on Charlie provides a refreshing creative outlet and an opportunity to collaborate with a wonderfully kind and talented cast and crew
Elena Kastritsa Cutter
Elena has been volunteering at Orpheus for many years as a set painter starting with Legally Blonde Since then she has been involved in almost all but a few shows of Orpheus Starting with Hairspray, she has been splitting her time between set painting and costume sewing She is thrilled to get an official position of Cutter in the current production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Bruce Ecroyd Wireless Mic Specialist
Bruce is an electrical engineer, and has been volunteering with Orpheus since 2004. He has done backstage crewing, set construction, props construction, set and headshot photography, as well as a regular wireless microphone team member for most of the Orpheus shows over the last twelve years He’ll look for a golden ticket, but will settle for anything chocolate (especially desserts) Break a leg cast and crew!
Kent Van Dyk
Co-Social Convenor / Co-Theatre Food Convenor
Kent is loving every minute of his first Orpheus production! He feels very privileged to be surrounded by such a talented, and hard working, cast and crew (especially his Co-Covenor Rebecca!). When not behind the scenes making food for Friday night socials, Kent can be found behind the scenes making food for his catering clients, consulting on restaurant openings and teaching Culinary Arts at LDHSS
Rebecca Wemyss
Co-Social Convenor / Co-Theatre Food Convenor
This is Rebecca's first production at Orpheus After many years behind the scenes at various high school musicals, Rebecca decided to do something different and provide food for the talented cast and crew of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory By day, Rebecca is a proud Gator at Gloucester High School, leading the Special Education Department. She thanks the Cast and Crew for welcoming her to Orpheus. Much thanks to Kent for agreeing to come on this crazy ride with her and to Max for his charcuterie skills
Director's Message
It has been an incredible honour to work on this show with such a talented and dedicated cast, production team and crew. We have had wonderful support from the Orpheus Board Of Directors, hundreds of fantastic volunteers, and the Orpheus Managing Director who took on a special role for our show Keep your eyes out for a cameo appearance by J T Morris!
Charlie And The Chocolate Factory, first published as a book in 1964, has had many reimaginings over the years, from movie versions to musicals. The original musical version was Willy Wonka And The Chocolate Factory and the most recent incarnation debuted in London's West End in 2013 and went on to Broadway in 2017. The enduring appeal has always been the incredible characters first developed by Roald Dahl. Dahl was not shy with his narrative of good versus evil Many of his characters were flawed, and that is what makes them so fun to explore for the actors, production team, and audience Our team has had a great time developing all the characters and we know you will laugh and cry right along with us Along with several songs from the original movie there are many more toe tapping ear worms for you to enjoy
We decided early on to embrace modern technology and incorporate the use of projections to enhance the look and feel of the show This has also allowed us to put the focus on the performers The Oompa Loompas are a mysterious group of workers and with the help of the designers we created a new interpretation of these classic characters This made way for exciting choreography that allowed for full range of movement and emotions I asked the production team members to help create a very specific look for the show, using colour to define characters, mood and story development. They came through in spades! Family and character connections are easy to define and fun to explore.
This show is meant to be enjoyed by an audience ages 6+ However, it is important to note that there are some scary moments in the show
Thank you again to all of the many individuals who together made the great team that brought this fabulous show to life. We hope you enjoy watching as much as we enjoyed putting this show together. So please sit back and join us on this incredible journey into pure imagination!
-Ellen Séguin
Show Synopsis
Based on the famous novel by Roald Dahl. When young Charlie wins a golden ticket to the mysterious Wonka Chocolate Factory, it's the chance of a lifetime to feast on the sweets and chocolates that have always been right under his nose but unaffordable for the Bucket family Could it also be his family’s route out of poverty? Along with the other winners--Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde, Mike Teavee, and Augustus Gloop--Charlie is swept inside of the mysterious factory with his Grandpa Joe. Inside, the winners encounter a magical world full of amazement, innovation, sugary treats, and, of course, Oompa-Loompas. But as the winners begin to let their greed and selfish nature's get the better of them, it seems that everything is not as sweet as it seems. Finally, Charlie is the last child standing--the only child not to have succumbed to the sweet temptations of Willy Wonka’s magical world His humble, loyal nature has not gone unnoticed by Mr Wonka, and Charlie’s reward is more than he could ever have dreamed.
Charlie Bucket ................................................................................................. Sam Castro
Willy Wonka Matthew Michael Lorz
Mrs Bucket Allison Helmer
Grandpa Joe Laurence Stassen
Augustus Gloop .............................................................................................. Karsten Skeries
Mrs Gloop Julie Heath
Veruca Salt Tegan Stassen
Mr. Salt .............................................................................................................. Cody Zulinski
Reed 1 Mike Tremblay Reed 2 .......................................... Catherine Gendron
Trumpet .............................................. Christa Lowry Trombone Chris Thiessen
Guitars ................................................. Corey Thomas
Cello Steve Smith
Bass .............................................. Mark Leighton Percussion .................................. Pierre Huneault
Contractor Local 180 Musicians Federation: Brian Boggs
Music Numbers
Outside the Factory
A Candy Shop
Willy Wonka! Will Wonka! .............................................................
The Candy Man (Reprise)
The Bucket Shack
Charlie, You and I A Letter from Charlie Bucket ..................................................
The Next Day Street / The Candy Shop More of Him to Love ..................................................................... When Veruca Says The Queen of Pop That Little Man of Mine
The Bucket Shack If Your Father Were Here
The Candy Shop / The Bucket Shack
I’ve Got A Golden Ticket / Grandpa Joe .................................
The Factory Gates It Must Be Believed to be Seen .................................................
Willy Wonka, Ensemble
Charlie Bucket, Ensemble
Charlie Bucket Grandpa Joe
Charlie Bucket, Mrs. Bucket, Grandparents
Mrs Gloop, Augustus Gloop, Ensemble
Mr. Salt, Veruca Salt
Mr Beauregarde, Violet Beauregarde, Ensemble
Mrs Teavee, Mike Teavee, Ensemble
Mrs Bucket, Grandparent
Charlie Bucket, Grandpa Joe, Grandparents, Mrs. Bucket
Pure Imagination / Grandpa Joe .................................. Auf Wiedersehen, Augustus Gloop
The Mixing Room You Got Whacha Want
The Invisible Corridors
The Nut Room
Veruca’s Nutcracker Sweet
SS Wonka
The TV Room Vidiots That Little Man of Mine (Reprise) .............................
The Imagining Room
The Elevator The View From Here
Willy Wonka, Ensemble
Willy Wonka, Charlie Bucket, Ensemble Oompa-Loompas, Willy Wonka
Oompa-Loompas, Willy Wonka
Oompa-Loompas, Bad Nut Squirrels
Oompa-Loompas, Willy Wonka, Mrs Teavee Mrs Teavee
Willy Wonka, Charlie Bucket
See the many St. Lawrence College Alumni in the cast!
Castro Charlie Bucket
Unlike most people his age, Sam enjoys chocolate, so he is delighted to take part in this production Sam has recently been seen onstage with Orpheus in The Wizard Of Oz Other credits include Shrek Jr 'Lord Farquaad' (Stagecraft) and Mamma Mia 'Sam' (Academy for Musical Theatre) Sam wants to thank his Mom, Dad, and sisters, Sofia and Emilia, for all their support, help, and encouragement.
Matthew Michael Lorz Willy Wonka
This is Matthew's first show with Orpheus and second collaboration with director Ellen Séguin, having previously teamed up when he played Buddy in Suzart's production of Elf in 2018 Matthew would like to thank his family, especially his lovely wife Melanie, without whose unwavering support and encouragement this wouldn't have been possible, and his daughter Ella for all her help behind the scenes
Allison Helmer
Mrs Bucket
Allison is thrilled to be returning to the Orpheus stage after a long hiatus! Allison is a Nurse Practitioner by day, hockey-Mom, wife and avid skier when time permits. She is honoured to be returning to the stage alongside some Orpheus legends and a stellar cast and crew! Many thanks to her hubby Lyle for "taking care of the reprobates" at home so she can live the dream She sends love to "her Charlie" WL
Laurence Stassen Grandpa Joe
Laurence is very thankful to be given this opportunity with Orpheus, and even more so to be in another show with his wonderful daughter, Tegan. He feels privileged to work with so many generous and talented people. When he's not working with children as a vice principal, he gets to spend his evenings working with people who are still children at heart. This is Laurence's second show with Orpheus after Mary Poppins 'Northbrook'
Karsten Skeries
Augustus Gloop
Karsten is excited to be involved in his third Orpheus show He most recently performed in The Wizard of Oz as The Cowardly Lion and Mary Poppins (Orpheus Musical Theatre), as well as local Ottawa productions of Jekyll & Hyde and The Little Mermaid (ASNY Productions). Karsten spends his days working remotely, and is very thankful of the cast and crew at Orpheus for providing this excuse to leave the house. Thank you Dani for all your support!
Julie Heath
Mrs. Gloop
Julie is thrilled to be on stage again this fall! She most recently played Mrs Brill in Orpheus’ production of Mary Poppins last season Other favourite roles include Mrs Shears/Mrs Gascoyne in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (Kanata Theatre) and singing with The Dickens Carolers Julie is extremely grateful to her husband, Jason and her Lennoxville and Turnbull School families for their love and support. Yodel-lay-hee-who!
Tegan Stassen Veruca Salt
This is Tegan’s fifth show with Orpheus after Newsies, Something Rotten!, Mary Poppins, and The Wizard of Oz Tegan is delighted to perform alongside her father again as he plays the captivating Grandpa Joe Outside of Orpheus, Tegan studies psychology and theatre at uOttawa and works as a student ambassador Tegan is very grateful for the amazing cast, crew, and production team who have helped create this world of pure imagination
Sam
Cody Zulinski
Mr. Salt
Cody would like to thank his friends and loved ones for helping him rediscover his passions this year. Most recently spotted as Gaston in Beauty & the Beast (ASNY) and Tunny in American Idiot (UOMTC) His last Orpheus show was in 2013 for Legally Blonde: the Musical These days, Cody is promoting his YA novel series, Saints of the Paradise Valley and releasing his original music to the world
Hazel Stanfield Violet Beauregarde
Hazel is thrilled to be a part of her first show with Orpheus! Previously she played Tobias in Papermoon theatre’s production of Sweeney Todd. She was also in Oliver! ‘Ensemble and Understudy’ and The Lightning Thief ‘Ensemble’, both with Suzart. Outside of musical theatre Hazel is an anthem singer for the 67s and enjoys playing the guitar and singing with her friends.
Pablo Castro Mr Beauregarde
Full-time AI researcher/professor and part-time musician, this is Pablo’s first foray into musical theatre. He’s thrilled to do it with Orpheus, and ecstatic to share the stage with his son Sam! Pablo thanks his family, who encouraged him to audition, his daughters Sofia and Emilia for vocal coaching, and dedicates these shows to his wife Michelle, who is the motor behind our household’s passion for musicals
Although new to Orpheus, Carson is no stranger to the stage Selected credits include Mamma Mia ‘Sam Carmichael', Merrily We Roll Along ’Frank' (YES Theatre) and The Wizard of Oz 'Munchkin' (Cambrian Theatre). Carson is a 16 year old, grade 12 student who absolutely loves music and performing! He sings, plays guitar, piano, drums, and pretty much anything that makes noise Carson thanks the talented cast, amazing crew and generous Orpheus members for this amazing opportunity
Kelly Fuoco
Mrs. Teavee
This marks Kelly’s 9th Orpheus show, and she’s positively buzzing to tackle the role of Mrs Teavee! A stage enthusiast, she’s graced Ottawa stages in over 30 productions, including memorable turns as Missy in The Marvelous Wonderettes, Baroness Bomburst in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, and Sister Robert Anne in Nunsense. She extends her heartfelt thanks to her family for their endless support and for laughing along, even when they’re not quite sure if they should!
Maureen Quinn McGovern Grandma Josephine
Maureen is delighted to be back on the Orpheus stage after an eight-year hiatus She last appeared as Grandma Addams in The Addams Family and is playing Grandma Josephine in this production. Maureen has had the good fortune to work with many Ottawa theatre groups in diverse roles. Favourites include: Anything Goes ‘Bonnie’, Anne of Green Gables ‘Anne’ & ‘Rachel Lynde’, Chicago ‘Roxie & Mama Morton’, and Annie ‘Miss Hannigan’. Maureen is lucky that her wonderful husband John shares her love of musical theatre She’d like to dedicate this show to her three amazing grandchildren - Maggie, Jack and Grace “Granny loves you!”
Jim Tanner Grandpa George
Jim is once again pleased to be on stage with such a talented cast and crew (which sounds better than being in bed with ) This will be his twentieth show with Orpheus and he thanks everyone involved for allowing him to come out to play
Carson Cameron Mike Teavee
Guylaine Roy Grandma Georgina
Guylaine has been involved in local theatre since 1990, when she "discovered" Orpheus She’s had great opportunities on Ottawa stages, including: Diana Morales in A Chorus Line, Florence Vassy in Chess, Ronette in Little Shop of Horrors, and Sister Mary Hubert in Nunsense She's also greatly enjoyed exploring costume design, having taken on such shows as: West Side Story, Spring Awakening, Chicago, Priscilla Queen of the Desert. She is extremely grateful to be part of such an outstanding cast. "Kass, you are my rock. I love you forever, to infinity and beyond."
Katie Miller Cherry, Ensemble
Katie is thrilled to be performing in her third Orpheus show with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. She was previously seen in the ensemble of both Dreamgirls and Mary Poppins last season, although she has frequented the stage as a dancer for many years. Working by day as an engineer, Katie is excited to be expanding her range as an artist Big thanks to her family and friends for their ongoing support!
Marc Reside Jerry, Ensemble
Marc returns to Orpheus for his third show with the company, having been involved in Tommy in 2016 and Rock of Ages in 2020 He feels privileged to once again be part of a wonderful and talented cast committed to lighting up the stage with music and laughter He would like to thank his wife and his family for their joyful and unwavering support, and his friends for their joy and laughter
Kendra Thompson Mrs. Green, Ensemble
It’s been a long five years since Kendra’s last onstage performance, and she is so happy to be back Though she took a break from the spotlight, she was working behind the scenes on seven Orpheus productions, two with TotoToo, and one with Suzart Having been involved in musical theatre since childhood, it feels like a homecoming to be performing once again She wants to sincerely thank her parents for always supporting her.
Kristen Gracie Ensemble
Kristen is thrilled to be in her first show with Orpheus; she is grateful to join such a wonderful, creative community Outside of theatre, dance, and her other hobbies, Kristen works for the federal government in public transit. She would like to thank her family and her friends, Jacquey, Olivia, and Karsten, for their support and encouragement.
Jeremie Huot Oompa-Loompa, Ensemble
Jeremie is a non-union actor and Musical Theatre graduate from St Lawrence College Recent Credits: ‘Nikko’/ ‘Coroner’/ ‘Crow’, The Wizard of Oz (Orpheus), ‘Angel’, The Cod Father (BigTime Murder Mystery), ‘Ensemble’, The Curious Incident of the Dog… (OLT), and ‘Mr. Beaver’, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (9th Hour) Up next: ‘Pierre Understudy’/ ‘Swing’, Oh Canada Eh?! (Totally Legit) Love/ gratitude to cast, crew, fam, friends and theatre goers-- Shim!
Chloe Léveillée Oompa-Loompa, Bad Nut Squirrel, Ensemble
Chloe is ecstatic to be in her first Orpheus show. It’s her first musical EVER! When not on stage, Chloe is a Dental Assistant at Barrhaven Dental Centre She feels lucky to have been chosen to be part of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory She gives thanks to her mom for giving her the pamphlet that enticed her to audition She also thanks her family for their love and support
Denise Morrison
After working backstage last season, Denise is excited to perform with Orpheus for the first time! From the pushy Reporters to the sassy Divas, and the wicked Oompa-Loopmas, being part of this ensemble has been a whirlwind of mischief and whimsy! Her most recent credits include Chicago (LBMT), Jekyll & Hyde, Miracle on 34th Street, and The Little Mermaid (ASNY). Special thanks to Matt for keeping our home in one piece while we’ve created this show!
Alyssa Murray Oompa-Loompa, Ensemble
Alyssa is excited to be performing in her first Orpheus production While having had a lifelong love of musical theatre, being part of the uOttawa Medshow in 2023 (Romeo and Juliet) and 2024 (Super Med Bros; ‘Peach’) inspired her to continue performing on stage and she found Orpheus! Alyssa is a Medical Student working towards an MD/PhD degree and is thankful for the support of her family and friends who encourage her many dreams!
Bethany Papadopoulos Ensemble / Dance Captain
Bethany is thrilled to return to the stage with Orpheus where she recently appeared in Mary Poppins ‘Ensemble’ and Something Rotten! ‘Ensemble/Dance Captain’. Select credits include; A New Brain ‘Director/Choreographer’, The Little Mermaid ‘Ensemble/Dance Captain’, and Rocky Horror Picture Show “Choreographer’ Bethany graduated from St Lawrence College in Musical Theatre Performance She thanks God for her musical gifts and feels blessed to share her passion with such a dedicated cast and crew!
Mercedes Rivoire Ensemble
Mercedes is so excited to be back working with Orpheus! Other credits include Les Belles Soeurs ‘Rose Ouimet’ (SLC), Twelfth Night ‘Sir Toby Belch’ (SLC), Miracle on 34th Street ‘Marvin Shellhammer’ & Jekyll and Hyde ‘Spider’ (ASNY) and Mary Poppins (Orpheus). As much as she has been on stage, Mercedes also can be found behind the scenes teaching dance and choreographing. She cannot wait to take the stage with this wonderfully wacky bunch!
Willa Rudner
Ensemble
Willa is so excited to be onstage for the first time! She has been behind the scenes for many Orpheus shows and is grateful to be working with such a talented cast She is currently in the Canterbury High School drama program, where she enjoys working as a script librarian Willa wants to thank her presto pass for getting her to rehearsals and her parents when the bus couldn’t.
Karim Sorour
Ensemble
Karim is over the moon to make his community theatre debut with Orpheus in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. After years of belting show tunes in the shower, he's finally bringing that passion to the stage with an incredibly talented cast and crew “Huge shout-out to my family and friends for pretending to love all my impromptu performances I couldn’t have done it without you Here’s to the first of many curtain calls!”
Production Volunteers
Many volunteers work behind the scenes up to and during an Orpheus show Every attempt has been made to acknowledge and include those individuals in the production volunteer lists before the programme goes to print If anyone has been missed, we apologize and warmly thank you for your generous contribution to Orpheus.
Audition Administration
Tanya Chang, Ron Cross, Lynne Fleury, Virginia Madon, Ashley Meunier
Amanuel Abebe, Jean Meldrum, Wendy Berkelaar, Laura Campbell, Ashley Canon, Roxane Delisle, Paul Melsness, Jennifer Quinn, Joanne Thiessen, May Turcot, Steve Vesely
Lighting
Members of the Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe Volunteer Company
Props
Amanuel Abebe, Craig Aris, Olivia Butt, Lynne Cullen, Katie Dickie, Mo Ecroyd, Laura Kollenberg, Natalia
Nowinska, Richard Paquette, Cathy Slusar, Steven Watzenboeck
Projections
Derek Hilton
Set Construction
Steven K Jones, Graham Galway, Neil Cachero, Andrew McGregor, Murray Doggett (Master Carpenters) Raven Drake, Alison Jones, Jacob Kenny, Joshua Kenny, Michael Kenny, Klaus Kollenberg, Brendan Mack, Mark Muench, Eric Williamson, Luka Yaskiw, Sean Yaskiw
Set Painting
Elena Kastritsa, Michael Kastritsa, Katy Dickie, Julie Dustin, Shaunalea Savard, Julie Seguin, Douglas Taylor, Eli Taylor, Marlene Alt, Ashley Meunier, Gillean Bernier, Christine Théwissen, André Leblanc
Sound
Heather Forsyth, Jenna Henry, Jeff May, Members of the Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe Volunteer Company
Stage Crew
Ella Lorz (Shadow ASM)
Julie Dustin, André Leblanc, Christine Théwissen, Dominique Giles, Dan Acton, Shauna Lee Savard, Rachel King, Marcella Sousa, Eric Leroux, Eric Williamson, Members of the Meridian Theatres @ Centrepointe Volunteer Company
