The hottest ticket in town in March was Chippewa Elementary’s theatrical production of “Willie Wonka Kids,” which featured sold-out performances in the school’s cafeteria.
The adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic novel featured 53 fourth-grade students, the most in the three years that Chippewa’s Drama Club has been putting on plays, said director and choreographer Jen Salerno. The actors rehearsed since late October, with multiple rehearsals held each week leading up to showtime, she said.
The cast is led by Gabriela Jimenez in the title role and Anthony Amesti as Charlie Bucket. Other lead performers are Michael Krolikiewicz as Grandpa Joe, Samantha Brummerloh as Violet Beauregard, Isabella Caropola as Veruca Salt, Abigail Carroll as Mike Teavee and Zachary Monteleone as Augustus Gloop. The production also features 29 Oompa Loompas, dressed in matching white shirts with red “suspenders” and glittery green wigs.
“This group is really made up of some very talented actors and actresses. They’ve been very easy to direct and they have a lot of natural talent. It’s been a great experience and I’m extremely proud of them,” Salerno said after the cast put on a preview matinee performance for other students on March 20.
Several teachers, staff, parents and principal Patricia Aubrey also volunteered their efforts to get the performance ready for show time, Salerno said.
“This was [Mrs. Aubrey’s] brainchild. She came up with the idea for Drama Club and we took it and went with it. It really takes such a team effort: kids, parents, custodians, everyone, to make it successful,” Salerno said.
Last year, Chippewa staged “Winnie the Pooh” and two years ago performed “The Jungle Book.”
“It gives kids a chance to showcase their talents other than chorus or orchestra. The kids in this building are very musical and what’s great is the kindergarteners now are looking forward to being in the fourth-grade play,” Salerno said.
PHOTOS: Check out some images from the production
-Words by Scott Campbell