Sydney Chambers

Staff Writer

    As many prepare for the upcoming Thanksgiving season, members of Willy Wonka cast were striving to entertain audiences at Market House Theater.  The show ran from November 8th to November 16th.  The show featured 40 cast members, including Rachel Alford (10) as Mrs. Gloop, Sarah Byasse (12) as Ms. Beauregarde, Delaney Rogers (9) as Mrs. Bucket, and Jamison Parsons (12) as newscaster Phineous Trout.

    The exciting musical follows Charlie Bucket, a young boy living during the Great Depression.  His family is almost in complete poverty, with being able to afford one meal being a treat.  Whenever it’s announced that Willy Wonka, has hid 5 golden tickets into his candy bars, Charlie’s birthday dream becomes to snag a chocolate bar with a golden ticket.  Those who come upon these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory with a parent.  No one was let into the factory for many years.  Winners would also receive a lifetime supply of chocolate from Wonka.  After Charlie finds a golden ticket from a new candy bar that is released, Charlie excitedly decides his Grandpa Joe must accompany him to the factory, for he knows almost everything about the Wonka factory.  The children must follow Wonka’s rules in the factory, or the must suffer the consequences - leaving early, humiliation, and no chance at the best prize of all.  While Charlie breaks one of Wonka’s rules, to not drink any of the soda, Charlie does not get caught.  He later confesses to Wonka his wrongdoing and says he does not deserve the lifetime supply of candy.  Wonka proudly tells Charlie he received the best prize of all - inheriting Wonka’s factory, for his excellent character.  Willie Wonka Jr. features many memorable, catchy songs, such as “The Candy Man,” “I Want it Now,” and “Oompa Loompa.”

      Rehearsals started in early September.  To prepare for shows, cast members would partake in a singing and physical warm-up to be sure that they are ready to speak, sing, and move with their parts.  The cast would also pray before going on.  For seniors Sarah Byasse and Jamison Parsons this will be their last youth show.  All Lone Oak cast members agree that you must be confident, comfortable in your own skin, and unafraid when auditioning for a production.

    I had the honor of seeing the show for myself Sunday, November 11th.  It was a very lively, energetic show with wonderful acting and fun dancing, but, the singing was weaker than expected.  But, more than half of the cast were small children and for people their age they were wonderful.  Overall, I was still very impressed with the show and cannot wait to see more of the Market House’s work.