r Spanish Fork Youth Theater begins public performances of Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory Wednesday evening, March 28, and for the following two evenings. Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory tells the story of Charlie Bucket who receives a golden ticket to visit the Willy Wonka Chocolate Factory with four other children and their parents. It is time for Willy Wonka to retire, and he must find an heir to his position. Willy hides five golden tickets in chocolate Wonka bars, and whoever finds them will tour the facility. Charlie buys a Wonka Bar to share with his Grandpa Joe. When he opens the candy bar, he finds the fifth golden ticket. He chooses Grandpa Joe to accompany him on his tour. While on the tour, Grandpa Joe and Charlie sample the Fizzy Lifting Drinks. This violates the contract which he signed. Charlie returns the candy bar to Willy Wonka. This selfless act shows Willy who should take his place. He announces that Charlie is the winner because he passed the morality test. The three enter the Wonkavator, a multi-directional glass elevator that flies out of the factory. While flying over the city, Willy reveals that Charlie’s actual price is the factory and that he and his family can move in immediately.
Karma Christensen is the director. She has a wonderful attitude, and she remembers every cast member’s name. With a cast of 80, that is amazing. When asked why she devotes her time, she replied, “Not every kid is an athlete or chooses to participate in sports.” Karma has the talent for bringing out the best in every child. She is assisted by Carol Jensen, Laurel Brockbank and Kristal Thompson.
Karma has been involved with the Youth Theatre for 35 years, and she is always amazed at what kids can do. She fears that the public thinks these are “Mickey Mouse” productions so they don’t come out to see them. However, they are well rehearsed, excellent productions with wonderful performances by all actors no matter what the age.
Public performances will be Wednesday, March 28 at 7 p.m., Thursday, March 29 at 7 p.m., and Friday, March 30 at 7 p.m. at Maple Mountain High School Auditorium, 51 North 2550 East Spanish Fork Utah. Tickets are only $3 at the door.
Come and enjoy the fun!!
