Hickory – Following an opening weekend that saw near-capacity crowds and rave reviews, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory continues its run at Hickory Community Theatre this weekend. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of Willy Wonka’s world – this is the hottest ticket in town!

Audiences were enchanted by the whimsical sets, show-stopping performances, and a story that’s as sweet as a Wonka Bar. Directed by Ethan Fite, with Justin Thomas starring as Willy Wonka, the production has delighted fans of all ages.

“This is theatre at its finest—where imagination meets inspiration,” says Eric Seale, Artistic Director. “We couldn’t be more thrilled with the audience response so far.”

Whether you’re revisiting this childhood classic or discovering it for the first time, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory promises a magical experience that’s perfect for the whole family.

Performances of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will continue through Saturday, December 14 on Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sundays at 2:30pm. There will be an additional performance on Thursday, December 12 at 7:30pm. This show is recommended for ages seven and up.

Tickets are available online at hickorytheatre.org or by phone at 828-328-2283. Prices are $18 for adults and $12 for youth/students.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is produced by Catawba Valley Health System. The 76th season at HCT is sponsored by A Cleaner World, Protection Products, Inc., Shurtape Technologies and LifeRootz. The Hickory Community Theatre is a funded affiliate of Arts Culture Catawba and receives sustaining support funding from the North Carolina Arts Council, a Division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, a state agency.

PHOTO: Manisha Parekh, Zezette Pflam, Angel Rojas Scott Majors and Ema Seibert are the Oompa Loompas in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the Hickory Community Theatre. The Broadway musical returns to the stage this Friday and continues on through December 14.  Photo by Ken Burns.