Luther College Presents Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Luther College Musical 2024

Book by David Greig Music by Marc Shaiman

Based on the novel by Roald Dahl

Songs from the Motion Picture by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley

Lyrics by Scott Wittman Marc Shaiman

Directors Notes

Welcome to a world of pure imagination! We are thrilled to present our production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to you tonight. This production has truly been a labour of love; a collaborative effort between our enthusiastic students, dedicated staff and supportive community.

Co-curricular activities such as this resonate loudly and clearly for our students, well into the future. As ever, I am exceedingly grateful to all those who have devoted their time, energy and expertise to bring this show to life and create a positive and enriching experience. Countless hours, days, weeks and months of experimentation, decisionmaking, creating and refining have led us to this production week. I feel exceptionally blessed to have such a supportive production team, who voluntarily sacrifice time away from their ‘other lives’ and commit themselves to creating and connecting this gigantic jigsaw puzzle. That they consistently do so with such a sense of joy, love and compassion ensures our students treasure this time of creativity for decades to come.

At its heart, this is a story of imagination and possibility. Wonka and Grandpa Joe both sing to Charlie, ‘We make something out of nothing’ – and indeed the ideas of creativity and innovation are key to staging any theatre or musical production. While it’s not entirely true that we start with nothing (after all – we have the libretto, vocal and orchestral scores and other resources) we still rely heavily on imagination and asking the question, ‘What if…?’. Audiences are probably familiar with at least one version of this story, bringing a range of expectations to the theatre. There’s the original Roald Dahl novel, the iconic 1971 Gene Wilder film, the 2005 Tim Burton/Johnny Depp adaptation, numerous theatrical variations, and the most recent Wonka film featuring Timothy Chalamet. Throughout this creative journey, we’ve borrowed a little from all of these, yet injected our own unique flavour throughout. So, while tonight’s experience may diverge from your expectations, rest assured the eccentric and whimsical world of Wonka guides every decision we’ve made! And so - as you watch the story unfold, we encourage you to suspend your disbelief and let your imagination run wild. Allow yourself to be swept away by the magic of theatre and the power of storytelling. I have no doubt that our production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will be a truly scrumptious treat for all who share it!

Kate Amey Creative Director

Synopsis

Based on the iconic Roald Dahl classic, this spectacular stage show tells a delicious tale of young golden ticket winner Charlie Bucket and the mysterious confectionary wizard Willy Wonka.

When Charlie Bucket finds one of the five golden tickets to the Wonka Chocolate Factory, Charlie and the other winners can’t wait to feast on the sweets of their dreams. But beyond the gates, they discover more than just remarkable edible delights. As they embark on an extraordinary journey through Willy Wonka’s marvellous mind, they soon learn that nobody leaves the same way that they arrived… With an original score and high energy dance numbers, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory takes the audience on a magical journey of hope and discovery, reminding us that with a little imagination anything is possible.

The Orchestra

Bowd

Angus Williamson

Isabel Colcott

Musical Director David George

Reed 1 Holly Bowd

Reed 1 Jes Broeren

Reed 2 Heather Smith

Reed 3 Jarrod Brereton

Trumpet Adrian Perger

Trombone Lachlan Smith

French Horn Ella Moulton

Keyboard 1 Lisa Chen

Keyboard 2 Angus Williamson

Violin 1 Claire Goode

Violin 2 Isabel Colcott

Cello Mia Holland

Double Bass Ava Kernich

Guitar Zac Annal

Drumkit Charlotte Ahern

Claire Goode

Holly

Lisa Chen

Charlotte Ahern

Zac Annal

Ava Kernich

Mia Holland

Scenes and Songs

Act One

Overture

Orchestra

The Candy Man Willy Wonka and Ensemble

Willy Wonka! Willy Wonka! Charlie Bucket and Ensemble

The Candy Man (Reprise) Charlie Bucket

Charlie, You & I Grandpa Joe

A Letter from Charlie Bucket

Charlie Bucket, Mrs Bucket and Grandparents

More of Him to Love Mrs Gloop, Augustus Gloop and Ensemble

When Veruca Says Mr Salt, Veruca Salt and Ensemble

Queen of Pop Mr Beauregarde, Violet Beauregarde, Divas and Ensemble

What Could Possibly Go Wrong? Mrs Teavee, Mike Teavee and Ensemble

If Your Father Were Here

I’’ ve Got a Golden Ticket / Grandpa Joe

Mrs Bucket

Charlie Bucket, Grandpa Joe, Grandparents and Mrs Bucket

It Must Be Believed to Be Seen Willy Wonka and Ensemble

Act Two

•Strike That! Reverse It! Willy Wonka, Golden Ticket Winners and Ensemble

Pure Imagination / Grandpa Joe ( Reprise)

Willy Wonka, Charlie Bucket, Grandpa Joe and the Golden Ticket Winners

The Oompa Loompa Song Oompa Loompas

Auf Wiedersehen Augustus Gloop

Willy Wonka and Oompa Loompas

When Willy Met Oompa Willy Wonka and Oompa Loompas

Veruca’’s Nutcracker Sweet Veruca Salt, Mr Salt, Squirrels and Oompa Sextet

Vidiots

The View From Here

Willy Wonka, Mike Teavee, Mrs Teavee and the Oompa Loompas

Willy Wonka and Charlie Bucket

The Candy Man ( Reprise) Ensemble

Cast List

Willy Wonka Hudson Malone / Hamish Warner

Charlie Bucket Hannah Bolonghe / Maddie Tavenor

Grandpa Joe William Lawrence / Nadia Ruzic

Mrs Bucket Abby Harris

Augustus Gloop Lena Miller / Mitchell Thomas

Mrs Gloop Issy Neilson

Veruca Salt Sarah Hudson / Ella Weekes

Mr Salt Samuel Vass

Violet Beauregarde Nikita Gordon / Sienna Keane

Mr Beauregarde Hamish Williamson

Mike Teavee Noah Geoghegan / Asher Larratt

Mrs Teavee Jess Lowman / Kiara Williams

Grandma Georgina Mia Foster

Grandpa George Tate Fittolani

Grandma Josephine Ivy Guardiani

Mrs Green Grace Bennell

Cherry Jasmine Gardner

Jerry Bella Neagle

Mr Bucket Isabella Hickey

Gum-Chewing Divas

Ruby Endall, Kiara Grant, Emily Mulder, Luna Yuen, Nikita Gordon, Sienna Keane, Jess Lowman, Kiara Williams

Queen of Pop Ensemble

Grace Bennell, Hannah Bolonghe, Hollie Fearnley-Sander, William Lawrence, Mia Morgante, Lauren Newnham, Nadia Ruzic, Maddie Tavenor

Veruca Says / Squirrel Ensemble

Isabella Hickey, Estella Higgins, Sarah Hudson, Claire Ilgoutz, Noelle Ko, Emily Mulder, Sophie Rozinszky, Ella Weekes, Luna Yuen

Nutcracker Sweet Sextet

Jasmine Gardner, Kiara Grant, Abby Harris, Issy Neilson, Hudson Malone, Hamish Warner, Jess Lowman, Kiara Williams

More to Love Ensemble

Grace Bennett, Emily Boer, Amelia Dinnison, Sophie Draffin, Grace Kaberry, Esther Kollmorgen, Abby Maxa, Gracie Miles, Summer Miles, Lena Miller, Emily Mizzi, Faith Ng, Mitchell Thomas, Maya Stefanac, Millah Townshend, Zara Williams

What could possibly Go wrong? Ensemble

Emily Boer, Anika Choudhury, Noah Geoghegan, Mitchell Gorry, Xavier Higgins, Amelia Kaberry, Charlotte Kennedy, Olivia Kennedy, Samantha Lange, Asher Larratt, Emma Leake, Hudson Malone, Lucy Martin, Willow Naismith, Georgia Trent, Abby Vander Jagt, Hamish Warner

Hudson Malone Willy Wonka

Hudson’s passion for music and theatre extends beyond the school gates, with performances for theatre companies including the Diamond Valley Singers, where he played the role of Mufasa in the production of The Lion King. At Luther College, Hudson played the role of Lord Farquaad, a pint-sized king wannabe in Shrek the Musical and Troy in the Year 9 Musical Production of High School Musical 2. Hudson also performs with the college Senior Choir, A Choired Taste and Rock Skool and loves the community formed throughout the making of a musical. He is very excited to bring to life the role of Wonka and perform for you.

Hamish Warner Willy Wonka

Hamish has performed in a number of roles during his time at Luther College, a highlight was his portrayal of the iconic Lord Farquaad in Shrek the Musical. More recently he has played roles in the Year 12 production of The 39 Steps and Year 11 production of In the Dash. Hamish also performs with the college Senior Choir, A Choired Taste and The Rock Experience and is thrilled to take on the beloved role of Wonka in this his final college musical. Hamish brings six years of vocal lessons and performances with the National Boys Choir and is grateful to take to the stage supported by an amazing team and cast.

Hannah Bolonghe Charlie Bucket

Hannah is thrilled to have the opportunity to play the role of Charlie Bucket in her first Luther College musical. Having had singing lessons since the age of ten, Hannah has performed with the Young Australian Broadway Chorus for over six years, participating in multiple productions and theatre experiences. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has been an incredible opportunity for Hannah to enhance her performing skills, build relationships and work with students across all year levels. Hannah would like to thank those who have supported and encouraged her to pursue the performing arts.

Maddie Tavenor Charlie Bucket

Maddie is passionate about theatre, dance and performing for audiences, which is something she has been doing since the age of six. Her first experience and love of the arts came about by chance when she filled in for a sick narrator. Maddie has previously performed as Annie, Violet Beauregarde and Jane Banks (Mary Poppins). In 2021 Maddie also had a lead role in the production of Pirates of the Curry Bean. As a dancer Maddie participates regularly in Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Contemporary, Lyrical and Hip-Hop. Like Charlie Bucket, Maddie always looks on the bright side of life and loves to share a giggle, “Let’s GO!”

Abby Harris Mrs Bucket

Abby is overjoyed to perform in her 3rd and final Luther musical - this time as Mrs Bucket! Having played Adella in The Little Mermaid, Belle in Beauty and the Beast, and most recently as The Dragon in Shrek the Musical, she’s loved getting involved over her time at school. She’s an admirer of all things music, theatre, and singing - and has been for as long as she can remember. Abby’s privileged to tell this exciting and heartfelt story alongside her peers, and is forever thankful to her family, friends, and fellow cast for their love and support.

Nadia Ruzic Grandpa Joe

Nadia feels extremely lucky to be performing in her final musical at the college as a Year 12 student. She has always felt an admiration for performance and as she reflects on her artistic journey through Luther, she wishes to share the joy and encourage others to get involved. Whether she’s channelling her inner Grandpa Joe, or Oompa-Loompa on stage, Nadia’s performances are embedded with sincerity and passion for which ever role she plays. As she prepares to take her final bow at Luther, Nadia looks forward to the creative endeavours that await her future.

William Lawrence Grandpa Joe

Although this is Will’s first time on stage for Luther College, he’s been a regular behind the scenes, working on sound and lighting for a number of productions throughout his five years at the college. Will has also performed with the Young Australian Broadway Chorus for 12 years, including productions of Madagascar, Oliver, Honk and Wizard of Oz, and was also a member of The National Boys Choir. Will is looking forward to performing with his castmates and thanks Ms Amey, Doug and everyone who’s helped bring the musical together. It’s been an awesome ride!

Lena Miller Augustus Gloop

Lena is thrilled to be part of her second musical at Luther College playing the hilarious role of Augustus Gloop. Lena took to the stage as Young Fiona in the college production of Shrek the Musical and plays with college Concert Band, Stage Band and sings with the Show Choir. Lena has extensive dance experience after training for ten years in a range of styles with Beat 87 Dance Academy. Lena is loving the chance to perform with such a talented cast and is grateful for the many amazing opportunities that the wonderful Luther team has made possible!

Mitchell Thomas Augustus Gloop

Mitchell is super excited to play the role of Augustus Gloop, particularly the opportunity to play someone who is so funny and so hungry all the time! Having performed since he was kindergarten, with small productions and plays, Mitchell is passionate about the performing arts because he sees it as an opportunity to be expressive and take the crowd on a journey. He also thinks the recognition and knowing you are making people happy is cool. He can’t wait to perform for you in this production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Issy Neilson Mrs Gloop

Issy has always loved being on the stage and has grown up with a passion for the performing arts and theatre. She has been incredibly excited to bring to life the outrageous and over the top role of Mrs Gloop and make it her own. Issy performed as the Ugly Ducking in the college production of Shrek the Musical and the outspoken Sharpay in the Year 9 production of High School Musical 2. Issy has also performed with the Young Australian Broadway Chorus and the Australian Youth Choir.

Ella Weekes Veruca Salt

Ella is so excited to be performing in her final musical at Luther College. She has always had a passion for theatre and performing arts and can’t wait to perform as the selfish and spoilt Veruca Salt. Ella has played the role of Peter Pan in the college production of Shrek the Musical, as well as key roles in the Year 11 production of In the Dash and the recent Year 12 production of the Hitchcock classic The 39 Steps. Ella has also enjoyed the experience of being part of many bands and ensembles at Luther College and can’t wait to share this amazing show with you all.

Sarah Hudson Veruca Salt

Sarah is delighted to play the role of Veruca Salt in this her second Luther College musical. An accomplished dancer, Sarah trains with the Ringwood Ballet Group, and has previously trained with the Victorian State Youth Ballet where she performed in a number of shows. Taking singing lessons since the age of seven, Sarah has also performed in the Year 9 production of High School Musical 2 and the Senior Choir. Sarah has been enjoying the rehearsals and being part of this production and will miss it deeply when it is over.

Samuel Vass Mr Salt

Samuel has been acting and singing since the age of six, his love for the stage growing with every performance. Samuel has performed with the Young Australian Broadway Chorus, the Australian Boys Choir and the Fresh Theatre for Social Change. Samuel also sings in the college Show Choir and plays trombone in the Concert Band, Stage Band and Brass Ensemble. Samuel has enjoyed the rehearsals and camp and can’t wait to act, sing and dance as the exasperated Mr Salt. He would like to thank the amazing people he is surrounded by that support him.

Sienna Keane Violet Beauregarde

Sienna feels most at home on stage and can’t wait to bring to life the gum-chewing character of Violet Beauregarde. This will be her second college musical, having played Young Fiona in Shrek the Musical. Sienna currently appears in the Intershow Chorus at the Young Australian Broadway Chorus where she started performing aged seven. With a passion for singing Sienna also won the Take the Mic competition. Sienna has enjoyed being part of this production and is grateful for the friendships, opportunities and relationships she has made.

Nikita Gordon Violet Beauregarde

In this her first college musical, Nikita can’t wait to perform as the gum-obsessed diva Violet Beauregarde. Nikita describes being on stage as a place she feels most comfortable, surrounded by like-minded people who understand and encourage and cheer her on. Nikita has performed in a number of productions throughout primary school and is extremely grateful for the opportunity to participate in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Nikita can’t wait for what’s to come while at Luther College.

Hamish Williamson Mr Beauregarde

Hamish is extremely passionate about performance and dance, training weekly at the Academy of Dance Victoria and The Dana Music Studio. Hamish has performed in numerous musicals, both inside and outside school. Most recently he performed in Frozen JR. and Les Misérables. Hamish has also made his professional debut in 2022 with The Australian Ballet in the production of Harlequinade. Hamish is very excited to bring to life the fast-talking character of Mr Beauregarde.

Noah Geoghegan Mike Teavee

Noah has been fond of the performing arts for a long time, and that passion continues to grow in this his second college musical. Playing the role of Lord Farquaad’s father in Shrek the Musical, Noah is now excited to take on the TV and technology obsessed role of Mike Teavee. Noah has also performed with the Young Australian Broadway Chorus Senior Troupe and is thrilled to be part of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He hopes you enjoy the show.

Asher Larratt Mike Teavee

Asher loves being on stage and has many fond memories of performances including leading roles in Aladdin Jnr and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, also with the National Boys Choir, Utassy Ballet School and the State Schools Spectacular. Asher’s music appreciation extends to the Cello, playing in the college group the Maplewood Strings. Asher credits his love of theatre and music to his wonderful teachers both past and present. Asher can’t wait to preform as the tech know-it-all Mike Teavee.

Jess Lowman Mrs Teavee

Having thoroughly enjoyed her experience playing Teen Fiona in the college production of Shrek the Musical, and Elsa in the Year 9 production of Frozen JR. Jess is now excited to be part of her third and final musical experience at Luther College. Jess has been taking singing lessons for ten years and has been with the Young Australian Broadway Chorus for seven years. She is excited to be putting these skills to use in her role as vacant-minded Mrs Teavee in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Kiara Williams Mrs Teavee

Kiara is thrilled to be performing in her third Luther College musical in the role of neurotic housewife Mrs Teavee. Kiara was part of the ensemble in the college production of The Little Mermaid and performed as Gingy in Shrek the Musical. Kiara has performed with the Young Australian Broadway Chorus and Centrestage Performing Arts School. Kiara also sings in the college A Choired Taste, Senior Choir and Soul Band. One of Kiara’s fondest memories at Luther was participating in the 2023 Music Tour.

Isabella

Ensemble

Grace

Xavier Higgins

Lucy Martin

Noelle Ko

Claire Ilgoutz

Abby Maxa

Esther Kollmorgen

Amelia Kaberry

Samantha Lange

Grace Kaberry Charlotte Kennedy

Emma Leake Dance Captain

Olivia Kennedy

Mitchell Gorry

Estella Higgins

Kiara Grant Diva

Maya Stefanac

Mia Morgante Hoffa

Millah Townsend

Lauren Newnham Dance Captain

Georgia Trent

Willow Naismith

Gracie Miles

Abby Vander Jagt

Faith Ng

Summer Miles

Zara Williams

Sophie Rozinszky Dance Captain

Emily Mizzi

Emily Mulder Diva

Luna Yuen Diva

Production Credits

Creative Director / Producer Kate Amey

MUSICAL DIRECTOR / ORCHESTRA David George

Assistant Musical Director Gabby Hill

VOCAL COACHES Michaela Marshall, Jade Biezen, Ella Fryer

CHOREOGRAPHY Kessia Bowen, Lauren Bourke

STAGE MANAGER Riley Bell

Assistant Stage Manager Ace Haeusler

Floor Manager Charlotte Coleman

Production Admin Rachel De Iulio

Rehearsal Assistant Ella Fryer

Set Design Kate Amey, Doug Amey, Kerry O’Gara

Projection Design & Scenic Art Kerry O’Gara

Set Construction Doug Amey

Props Coordinator Ace Haeusler

Props Construction Ace Haeusler, Doug Amey, Lorraine Millar

Costume Team Sharyn Taylor, Kate Amey, Maria Smedes, Susan Sharkey, Daisy Taylor, Arwen Johns, Zadie Stefanac, Manuela Kitanovic, Lorraine Millar

Lighting Design & Operation David Brown

Lighting Assistant & Operation Lucas Kent

Sound Design Gerard Hook – Stagepass

Sound Operation Daniel Gigliotti – Stagepass

Stage Crew Xander Allen, Tom Anderson, Maggie Delaney, Amy Lucas, Ruby Re, Tom Smith, Abbey Stone, Daisy Taylor

Tech Crew Jamie Kruger, Aleck Gibson, Tom Stone

Keyboard Programming Nathan Firmin – Patched Keyboards

Backstage Supervision Staff of Luther College

Publicity Coordination Lisa Trent

Photography Sean Callinan – A Touch of Flash

Photography

VIDEOGRAPHY Michael Hollis, Leigh Schilling –Tiny Moon Productions

FRONT OF HOUSE Students and Staff of Luther College

PROGRAM Dainen Creative

Acknowledgments

Karralyka Theatre

Hal Leonard Australia

Stagepass

Maria Smedes

Wayne Brown

Resolution X

Form-A-Sign

Arrabri Lodge, Warburton East

Luther College Performing Arts Staff

Paul Junginger - Evolution Boats