It’s 50 years since Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was published. September 13 2014 is Roald Dahl Day. The West End production of the legendary story has sold its one millionth ticket – It’s a happy month for the West End’s award-winning Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory the musical is extending in the West End
To mark the symbolic month producers have announced an extension to its booking period, until 31 October 2015.
A skydive birthday celebration
September 13 is the iconic children’s author’s birthday. To celebrate this special day more than 50 volunteers, including members of the show’s production team, are taking part in a sponsored skydive. Though this won’t be a normal skydive, as participants will be dressed as Oompa Loompas, Willy Wonka’s orange-complexioned enigmatic little helpers.
Proceeds from the skydive will go to the Roald Dahl Marvellous Children’s Charity. The Charlie and the Chocolate Factory production has already raised more than £30,000 for the charity.
Puffin Virtually Live
The month-long celebrations of one of the world’s most prolific children’s authors and what is possibly his best-known book, includes Puffin Virtually Live on Monday 15 September. This national live-streamed event will involve more than half a million schoolchildren through Britain join in a sing-a-long of Pure Imagination. The Puffin Virtually Live event is led from the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. The national sing-a-long is run by Alex Jennings, who plays Willy Wonka in the West End production. Alex Jennings is joined by the popular TV presenter and huge Roald Dahl fan Helen Skelton.
A record-breaking show
Featuring lyrics by Grammy winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman and incredible set and costume designs, the West End’s production brings the tale of young Charlie Bucket and the ludicrously eccentric Willy Wonka to life.
Written by David Greig, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory had its world premiere in June 2013 at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. The musical is directed by Academy Award winner Sam Mendes.
This magical show, based on one of Roald Dahl’s most legendary books, currently holds the record for the highest weekly gross in the West End.
It’s good news for Roald Dahl and Willy Wonka fans as the new booking period will go on sale on September 19, 2014 until 31 October 2015. Book your tickets now by clicking here.
