ABOUT THE PLAY
Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka JR. follows enigmatic candy manufacturer Willy Wonka as he stages a contest by hiding golden tickets in five of his scrumptious candy bars. Whomever comes up with these tickets will win a free tour of the Wonka factory, as well as a lifetime supply of candy. Four of the five winning children are insufferable brats, but the fifth is a likeable young lad named Charlie Bucket, who takes the tour in the company of his equally amiable grandfather. The children must learn to follow Mr. Wonka's rules in the factory — or suffer the consequences.
meet the cast
A DIRECTOR'S NOTE
Willy Wonka Jr. holds a special meaning and is very dear to my heart. I was first asked to direct this show 5 years ago, and I wondered why this show. Needless to say my excitement and enthusiasm were minimal. After studying and familiarizing myself with the script and music, I fell in love pretty quickly. WIlly Wonka Jr's moral and themes of following your dreams, embracing your uniqueness, and believing the impossible is in fact possible are very relevant today. The fun and catchy music, and hilarious comedy continues to connect with all audiences. The last show The Banzerini House presented was the Best Christmas Pageant Ever (BCPE) in 2019. We had so many exciting plans and were set for many great adventures, but the unfortunate heartache of last year took a toll, and my husband and I relocated to Anthem, AZ. We are so incredibly excited to present our very first show to Anthem! It is my hope that this show heals wounds and makes hearts whole again, as it did for us these past 5 weeks. I want to give my profound thanks to the cast and crew. I could not have done it without you. What a blessing this show has been to the Banzerini House, and may it be a positive beacon in your own lives as well. For we will always do it for the theatre!