As families and peers took their seats for the fifth-grade play this morning, they could be forgiven for mistaking the fresh dusting of snow out the window for a sprinkling of powdered sugar. They had candy on the brain, after all, as they had come to see Ms. Sidoli’s memorable adaptation of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!
As kindergarteners, fourth graders, and eighth graders looked on in anticipation, a crowd of fifth-grade performers took the stage, in front of the scrumptious scenery and draped in the quirky costumes created by Jane Rothwell, recently retired Drama Assistant. As the music of Valerie Snow and Maeve Lien sprinkled like gumdrops upon the stage, a classic story with new twists and turns pulled the audience along on an unforgettable sugar rush!
With so many fifth-grade thespians, the audience was treated to a dramatic expansion of the familiar cast. Not only do we meet old favorites like Willy Wonka, Charlie Bucket, Augustus Gloop, Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde, and Mike Teavee, but also their parents, siblings, and extended families, all portrayed by talented fifth graders who brought these characters richly to life. In a play this delectable, a little scenery chewing is encouraged!
After the performers took their bows, they were treated to a cast party with a range of tasty treats which they were happy to enjoy… thankfully spared from the stern glares of those Oompa Loompas!
