director’s note
Welcome to Willy Wonka KIDS, where chocolate flows like rivers, logic takes frequent breaks, and absolutely no one asks how a gumball counts as a three-course meal.
In this world, golden tickets are destiny on shiny paper, and every corner of a candy factory hides something delightfully strange, slightly chaotic, and completely unforgettable. It’s the kind of story that reminds us how fun it is when imagination is allowed to run wild.
There’s something about childhood stories like these that stick with us. Even as we grow, there’s a part of us that remembers what it feels like to believe anything could happen. Sometimes all it takes is a little chocolate and a lot of curiosity.
Our young performers have thrown themselves into this world with so much energy, humor and heart. Watching them explore these characters and stories has been a reminder that creativity grows best when shared, encouraged, and given room to be a little silly. And honestly, a little silliness is often where the best ideas live.
As you watch tonight, we hope you laugh and smile. In the midst of all the fun, we hope you catch little glimpses of kindness, generosity, and goodness woven quietly throughout the story. Thank you for supporting these students as they grow and shine on stage.
Enjoy the show—and don’t forget to keep an eye out for anything that might just “defy explanation”!
Ava Delke, Director
Words and Music by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newly
Adapted for the Stage by Leslie Bricusse and Timothy A. McDonald
Based on the Book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
Conceived by Lynn Ahrens, Stephen Flaherty and Eric Idle by Roald Dahl
COSTUME DESIGN
KATHY RISK
STAGE MANAGER
JAMES HAYWARD
BACKSTAGE MANAGER
MAY 8-9 | 6:00PM
SCENIC DESIGN & TECHNICAL DIRECTOR JUSTIN McPHERSON (’07)
LOGAN ABREAU CAMPEN
LIGHTING DESIGN HANNAH BALOG*
ASSISTANT TECHNICAL DIRECTORS OLIVER KAELIN (’25) AND AVA DELKE
SOUND ENGINEER SOPHIA MORAIS
KID WRANGLERS
STUDENT HOUSE MANAGER VARAN VERMA
MALIA LIU*, TALIA SANTIZO*, JACK GUNTER*, JOSH PRABHAKAR*
GRAPHIC DESIGN JILL CARLSON
PRODUCTION ASSISTANT & HOUSE MANAGER CRISTINA ZEPEDA
SOUND BOARD OPERATOR JACOB THOMAS
RUNNING CREW CADEN MALINOWSKI, SAHANA KUNDRA, SOPHIA NAMEK, EMMA HANNA, ANVI GOEL
VOCAL DIRECTOR BREANNA BEVIS (’17)
PRODUCER MYRA KAELIN (’94)
DIRECTED BY AVA DELKE (’24)
* Conservatory Honors Fellow
CHOREOGRAPHER AVA DELKE
ROALD DAHL’S WILLY WONKA KIDS is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. www.MTIShows.com
The videotaping or other video or audio recording of this production is strictly prohibited.
Golden Age of Chocolate
The Candy Man
(I’ve Got A) Golden Ticket At The Gates (Pure Imagination) Oompa Loompa 1 Oompa Loompa 2 Burping Song
CAST
Ms. Teavee .................................................................................................................... EMMA BREILAND
Augustus Gloop ............................................................................................................. NEEV CHADHA
Grandpa Joe.............................................................................................................................. LEO CHEN
Bubble Gum Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid ELENAH COBOS
Mike Teavee COLTON DAILY
Fizzy Lifting (Soda) Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid AUDREY DAILY
Squirrel / Candy Man Kid CHENYU (CHLOE) GU
Fizzy Lifting (Soda) Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid LUCAS HUI
Mrs. Bucket / Bubble Gum Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid DAISY HULT
Willy Wonka AARON INKER
Fizzy Lifting (Soda) Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid REBECCA INKER
Charlie Bucket JULIETTE JACKSON
Squirrel / Candy Man Kid ZOE JONES
Squirrel / Candy Man Kid CELINE KIM
Phineous Trout / Bubble Gum Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid KAYLA KIM
Veruca Salt LAUREN JUNG
Grandma Georgina / Pop Rocks Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid ............... LENA JUNG
Mr. Bucket / Chocolate Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid .................................. CASEY LEE
Mr. Salt .............................................................................................................................. NATHAN MOON
Candy Man / Chocolate Oompa Loompa / .................................... KYLE MUKKANANCHERY Candy Man Kid
Violet Beauregarde ARIA NAIR
Mrs. Gloop SAMYRA NAIK
James / Pop Rocks Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid IVAAN NAG
Squirrel / Candy Man Kid ZAYA PENNIX
Oompa Loompa Manager KAVYA PRAJAPATI
Grandma Josephine / Chocolate Oompa Loompa / ..................................... LENNOX ROUSH Candy Man Kid
Matilda / Chocolate Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid ANYA SIENICKI
Mrs. Beauregarde ELSA WANG
Grandpa George / Bubble Gum Oompa Loompa / JEREMY WANG Candy Man Kid
Pop Rocks Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid ..................................... ALEXANDRA WILSON
Pop Rocks Oompa Loompa / Candy Man Kid ............................................................. NORA WU
Oompa Loompa Manager ................................................................................................. ELISSA YEO
BIOGRAPHIES
Ava Delke Director
Avalenne Delke is a theatre artist and director currently studying Theatre Arts with an emphasis in Production Design and Technology at San José State University. She is thrilled to be directing Willy Wonka Kids, following her previous directing work on Winnie the Pooh Kids, Finding Nemo Kids, and Alice in Wonderland. Ava is a proud alumna of Valley Christian Theatre, where her passion for storytelling and design first took shape. She is grateful for the opportunity to return to this community, this time as a director, and to help bring the excitement of live theatre to a new generation of performers.
Breanna Bevis is a Valley Christian alum and performed numerous VCS Theatre productions throughout high school. She was also involved in the Conservatory vocal ensembles where she developed her skill and love for music. Breanna is thrilled to be back and sharing her love for music and theater with these spirited young performers. She thanks God for this opportunity to work with the students and see them grow in their skills. She hopes you all enjoy the show and is cheering everyone on.
VALLEY CHRISTIAN THEATRE STATEMENT
Here at Valley Christian Theatre (VCT), we believe it is vital for our students to know they can be unapologetically Christian in the Arts; their artistic gifts are God-given, after all. Further, it is equally important to us that our students leave our program well-prepared to think and live like followers of Jesus in a complex world. This includes learning to use their own Christian perspective to address worldly themes and the fallen nature of humanity, much like they do in their other academic studies. Often, it is when we confront these very themes that we turn towards Christ, humbling ourselves as we examine our own convictions, and seek wisdom; this is the gritty work that allows us to strengthen our faith (James 1:5-7).
Every VCT production, K-12, goes through a vetting process with several sets of theatrically experienced eyes on scripts before they are decided upon. We examine the scripts closely and decide as a team whether a show is a good choice for the Valley Christian Schools (VCS) stage. It is an extensive and time-consuming process, and one we do not take lightly. Invariably, we come across characters and situations that challenge our very human (and Christian) sensibilities. Please keep in mind that VCS does not condone these situations, characters, or lifestyles; rather, what you see on stage is a reflection of the reality of our modern world and culture. It is in these moments that we pause, humble ourselves, and begin to look for clues of justice and redemption within the story. While not always overt, they nearly always exist. And sometimes, bringing a smile to your face or a moment of joy to your heart is the redemptive moment (Isaiah 61:3).
As you enjoy tonight’s performance, if at any moment you find yourself triggered, we encourage you to pause, reflect, seek wisdom, and look for justice and redemption. If you have questions, strong thoughts, or feelings you wish to express, please, reach out to us—we want to engage in a healthy, respectful, and godly dialogue with you. It is our true desire to give your students artistic opportunities that allow the light of Christ to shine through them so that they may ultimately glorify God through their art “at home and in their communities”—to “Do it heartily unto the Lord.” We strive to ensure that the Valley Christian Theatre program embodies the VCS mission in all that we do.
Myra Kaelin (’94), K-12 Director of Theatre Arts
VCS Production Committee
Brian Clemons (’87), President
Justin McPherson (’07), K-12 Director of Technical Theatre
Troy Gunter, VP/Director of K-12 Conservatory of the Arts
Dr. Steve Dang (’02), Senior Vice President, Chief Ministry Officer, & Director of Alumni
Dr. Jennifer Silva (’94), High School Principal
Sophia McCann (’15), Junior High Drama Teacher and Junior High Leader
Anne (Bagley ’94) Delke, Department Head, High School Bible Department
Dr. Niccole Carner, High School AP English Teacher
SUMMER DANCE CAMP
JUNE 8-18, 2026 for students entering 1st-8th grade
Vivid 2 - The Dance Team Experience
Dates June 8-18 (Monday-Friday)
Time 1pm-4pm
Cost $475 Grades
Entering Grades 1-8 (Co-Ed)
Location Skyway Theatre
100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Coaches
Mrs. Colette Evans
Miss Megan Stagi
Vivid Dance Team
Sponsored and facilitated by the members of Valley Christian’s Vivid Dance Team, Vivid 2 introduces young dancers to the fast-paced and exciting world of competitive dance teams! Participants will learn cuttingedge routines, develop team spirit, and have a fantastic time while enhancing their performance skills and dance techniques.
The camp will culminate in a dynamic performance showcasing the combinations and techniques learned over the two weeks. Join us and be a part of our nationally ranked team! Let’s dance!
The camp performance will be held on Thursday, June 18, at 3pm in the VCHS Theatre.
Note: The fee includes a dance team shirt, daily nutritious snacks, and performance expenses. Students will need to provide jazz shoes. Fees will go directly to support Vivid: Valley Christian’s award-winning competitive dance team. If you have any questions, please contact Colette Evans, cevans@vcs.net
SUMMER THEATRE CAMP
Dates June 8-18 (Monday-Friday)
Time 9am-12pm
Cost
$495
Grades
Entering Grades 3-5 (Co-Ed)
Location
Skyway Theatre 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Camp registration closes Monday, May 11. for students entering 3rd-5th grade JUNE 8-18, 2026
Instructor
Miss Sophia McCann (’15) Mr. Justin McPherson (’07)
Join us for a two-week, half-day camp for students entering grades 3-5. These young actors will focus on learning lines, basic stage directions, introductory vocals, choreography, and stage movement, culminating with a fun and energetic “mini-show” performance on June 18 at 12pm. This year’s camp is not to be missed and will give budding thespians great building blocks for their future at VCT.
Mandatory Camp Showcase June 18 at 12pm
Note: Camp fee includes a camp t-shirt. Students are responsible for bringing their own snack. If you have questions, or if all spots are full when you go to register, please contact Cristina Zepeda, czepeda@vcs.net, to be placed on a waitlist.
SUMMER THEATRE CAMP JUNE 8-26, 2026
for students entering 6th-12th grade
Summer Theatre 2026: Disney’s FROZEN JR.
Dates June 8-26 (Closed June 19) (Monday-Friday)
Time 9am-3pm
Cost $795
Grades
Entering Grades 6-12 (Co-Ed)
Location Skyway Theatre 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructor
Miss Sophia McCann (’15)
Mr. Justin McPherson (’07)
Disney’s enchanting modern classic comes to life in Frozen JR. this summer at VCT! Based on the hit Broadway musical, the show brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to the stage with beloved songs and exciting new moments written for Broadway. Students will explore a heartfelt story of courage, acceptance, and sisterhood as Anna and Elsa discover their inner strength. Filled with magic, adventure, humor, and unforgettable characters, Frozen JR. promises a fun, inspiring, and confidence-building summer experience.
Join us for a three-week, full day camp for students entering grades 6-12. Students will spend their days rehearsing vocals, choreography, and staging, leading up to performances on June 25-26. Every student is guaranteed a role in the show! Join us for a summer filled with creativity, growth, and the magic of Frozen JR!
No camp on Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
Mandatory Performances on June 25-26 at 6pm. Camp hours will be adjusted on these two days to accommodate the performances.
Note: Camp fee includes a camp t-shirt. Students are responsible for bringing their own snack and lunch. If you have questions, or if all spots are full when you go to register, please contact Cristina Zepeda, czepeda@vcs.net, to be placed on a waitlist.
Camp registration closes Monday, May 11.
SUMMER ART CAMP
Friends • Creativity • Memories
Dates June 8-12 (Monday-Friday)
Time 9am-12pm
Cost $300
Grades
Entering Grades 1-2 (Co-Ed)
Location Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Dr San Jose, CA 95111
Instructor Mrs. Jill Carlson
Art Camp emphasizes creativity as an integral part of the art process, regardless of a student’s level of experience. By teaching fundamental skills and concepts, the instructor encourages students to see art as a means of personal expression. The Valley Christian Elementary School Art Camp allows children to immerse themselves in an array of intensive art studio experiences. Children will be up to their elbows in fun as they dabble in a kaleidoscope of exciting art!
Note: Children should plan to wear clothing that can get messy and stained. Pack a snack and drink for a break outside.
SUMMER ART CAMP
JUNE 8-12, 2026
for students entering 3rd-5th grade
Friends • Creativity • Memories
Dates June 8-12 (Monday-Friday)
Time 1pm-4pm
Cost $300
Grades
Entering Grades 3-5 (Co-Ed)
Location Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Dr San Jose, CA 95111
Instructor Mrs. Jill Carlson
Art Camp emphasizes creativity as an integral part of the art process, regardless of a student’s level of experience. By teaching fundamental skills and concepts, the instructor encourages students to see art as a means of personal expression. The Valley Christian Elementary School Art Camp allows children to immerse themselves in an array of intensive art studio experiences. Children will be up to their elbows in fun as they dabble in a kaleidoscope of exciting art!
Note: Children should plan to wear clothing that can get messy and stained. Pack a snack and drink for a break outside.
SUMMER ELEMENTARY BAND CAMP
for students entering 4th-5th grade
Friends • Music • Memories
Dates June 1-5 (Monday-Friday)
Time 8:30am-12pm
Cost $275
Grades
Entering Grades 4-5 (Co-Ed)
Location
Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructors
Mr. Jeff Wilson
Dr. Shane Ryan (’16)
Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14)
The Elementary Band Camp offers rising fourth and fifth graders the opportunity to play a band instrument, including the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, drums, and more. The camp welcomes both beginners and students with more experience and includes some fun activities along the way.
A short concert will occur on Friday, June 5 at 11:30am.
Note: All are welcome. Instruments are available to borrow.
EL Band Camp/PIE JR. Camp - DISCOUNT BUNDLE!
Bundle both EL Band Camp and PIE JR. Camp for a $50 discount savings.
Dates: June 1-5 (8:30am-12pm) / June 8-12 (9am-4pm)
Performance on Friday, June 12 at 3pm.
Note: Performers should wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes. Snacks provided. Pack your own lunch.
SUMMER JUNIOR HIGH BAND CAMP
JUNE
1-5, 2026
for students entering 6th-8th grade
Friends • Music • Memories
Dates June 1-5 (Monday-Friday)
Time 8:30am-12pm
Cost $275
Grades
Entering Grades 6-8 (Co-Ed)
Location
Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructors
Mr. Jeff Wilson
Dr. Shane Ryan (’16) Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14)
The Junior High Band Camp is an opportunity for students to begin their journey of learning a band instrument. It is also designed for students with experience who want to improve their skills on traditional band instruments, including the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, drums, and more. All experience levels are welcome, from beginners to advanced junior high-aged students. Our goal is to make music and have fun with friends.
A short concert will occur on Friday, June 5 at 11:30am.
Note: All are welcome. Instruments are available to borrow.
JH Band Camp/PIE JR. Camp - DISCOUNT BUNDLE!
Bundle both JH Band Camp and PIE JR. Camp for a $50 discount savings.
Dates: June 1-5 (8:30am-12pm) / June 8-12 (9am-4pm)
Performance on Friday, June 12 at 3pm.
Note: Performers should wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes. Snacks provided. Pack your own lunch.
SUMMER HIGH SCHOOL BAND CAMP
for students entering 9th-12th grade
Friends • Music • Memories
Dates June 1-5 (Monday-Friday)
Time 8:30am-12pm
Cost
$275
Grades
Entering Grades 9-12 (Co-Ed)
Location
Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructors
Mr. Jeff Wilson
Dr. Shane Ryan (’16)
Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14)
The High School Band Camp is an opportunity for students to start their journey of learning a band instrument. It is also designed for students with experience who want to improve their skills on traditional band instruments, including the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, drums, and more. All experience levels are welcome, from beginners to advanced high school-aged students. Our goal is to make music and have fun with friends.
A short concert will occur on Friday, June 5 at 11:30am.
Note: All are welcome. Instruments are available to borrow.
HS Band Camp/PIE JR. Camp - DISCOUNT BUNDLE!
Bundle both HS Band Camp and PIE JR. Camp for a $50 discount savings.
Dates: June 1-5 (8:30am-12pm) / June 8-12 (9am-4pm)
Performance on Friday, June 12 at 3pm.
Note: Performers should wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes. Snacks provided. Pack your own lunch.
JUNE 8-12, 2026
4th-12th grade
Friends • Creativity • Memories
Dates June 8-12 (Monday-Friday)
Time 9am-4pm
Cost $275
Grades
Entering Grades 4-12 (Co-Ed)
Location
Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructors
Mr. Jeff Wilson
Dr. Shane Ryan (’16) Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14)
Introduction to the skills of our award-winning Performing Indoor Ensemble (PIE). Rising fourth through twelfth-grade students will learn how to apply band (woodwind, brass, and mixed percussion) and color guard (flags, choreography, and dance) to produce a “mini-show” performance in one week. Some band experience required. No experience needed to participate with the color guard.
Performance on Friday, June 12 at 3pm.
Note: Performers should wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes. Snacks provided. Pack your own lunch.
AFFIRMING THE ARTS
Spring 2026
Jan 24.............................. West Coast Elite Dance Competition - HS Dance
Jan 31................................ Conservatory Concerto Competition Finals Round - HS Music
Mar 5-7............................. 11-14 My Fair Lady - HS Theatre
Mar 26-28......................... Dare to Dream Jr. - A Disney Musical Revue - JH Theatre
Mar 30.............................. Spring Chamber Recital - JH/HS Chambers
Mar 31............................... Serenade to Spring - JH/HS Strings
Apr 18............................... An Evening of Note - K-12 Music
Apr 22.............................. Faith, Hope, and Love - JH/HS Choirs
Apr 23............................. Percussion Extravaganza - JH Drums/HS Percussion
Apr 23-25........................ Emotions: Sitcoms - HS Dance
Apr 30-May 2.................. Experiments in Comedy & Tragedy - HS Theatre
May 4-15.......................... Art Show - EL Art
May 8-9............................ Willy Wonka KIDS - EL Theatre
May 11.............................. Theatre & Dance Senior Showcase - HS Conservatory
May 12-15......................... Art Show and Visual Art Senior Showcase - JH/HS Art
May 13.............................. Festival of the Arts and Music Senior Showcase - K-12 Music
May 21-23......................... DanceScapes: Under the Big Top - EL/JH Dance
May 24............................. Conservatory Concerto Competition Winners Concert - HS Music
Grace Zhu (’27)
WARRIOR FUND
Tuition funds operations. Philanthropy fuels vision. Every gift makes a difference, so please consider donating to the Warrior Fund today.
UPCOMING EVENTS
May 11, 2026
We look forward to welcoming the VCS community for a round of golf and a day of fellowship at the annual Golf Classic. vcs.net/golfclassic Thank
Giving PLANNED
The Shechem Oak Society honors alumni, parents, and friends who have included Valley Christian Schools in their estate plans, empowering future generations just as the oak at Shechem symbolized God’s faithfulness throughout biblical history. Your gift ensures our faithful witness to God’s kingdom mission through VCS to all generations.
We invite you to join the Shechem Oak Society. Visit plannedgiving.vcs.net or contact advancement@vcs.net to explore the variety of ways you can make a lasting impact at VCS.
MISSION STATEMENT
Valley Christian Schools’ mission is to provide a nurturing environment o ering quality education supported by a strong foundation of Christian values in partnership with parents, equipping students to become leaders to serve God, to serve their families, and to positively impact their communities and the world.
VISION STATEMENT
A world where every student pursues their personal Quest for Excellence™
FOUNDING STATEMENT
Valley Christian Schools supports the homes and churches of students in providing an education that is grounded in the Judeo-Christian values of the Bible, as reflected in the life and teaching of Jesus Christ. Valley Christian Schools is committed to a Quest for Excellence™ in all of its educational programs, and provides a comprehensive kindergarten through twelfth-grade curriculum with a rigorous college preparatory program. Firmly founded on Christian values, Valley Christian Schools challenges youth to aspire toward lives of character, service, and influence while pursuing their individual Quests for Excellence
