Peter Jorgensen’s directorial vision creates a feast for the eyes, ears, heart and soul, with rollicking, colourful action, charmingly poignant moments, and fun-filled episodic character sketches that keep the audience in stitches. The cast - down to every single member - is simply marvellous! Peter Ricardo’s Willy Wonka is so smooth and effortlessly devilish, kind, mischievous, and magic that there is no “performance” of the character - a rare and wonderful experience in live theatre. Henry Sudds’ shining portrayal of Charlie Bucket astonishes the audience with his remarkable singing and acting abilities. Imelda Gaborno, Charlie’s mom, enchants with her vocal talent. Richard Newman’s Grandpa Joe is a reminder of the true love, understanding and grandparental support that so many remember, and others wish for. Those playing the ticket-winners and their parents are hilarious and so extremely talented, as are the media couple, and Mrs. Green. Let’s not forget the other grandparents, the Oompa Loompas, and the other ensemble members. Such talent!

Incredible talent is also present in the technical team. Music director Sean Bayntun leads the orchestra seamlessly through every piece, and every emotional nuance. Keri Minty’s choreographic expertise shines through the performances of the entire cast - especially the Oompa Loompas, who delight the audience with boundless energy, acrobatic talents, and enviable dance moves. The energy on stage would not inspire the audience were it not for the detail taken in costuming. Christine Reimer has outdone herself with her work in this production. Kudos, too, to Robert Sondergaard for magical lighting, and Brad Danyluk for precise, often challenging feats with sound. The set design, too, is versatile, functional and imaginative, yet leaving just enough room for the possibility of our imagination to take hold.