Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Presented by Showbiz Christchurch Isaac Theatre Royal April 23 – May 9 Reviewed by Courtenay Washington for Chris Lynch Media

Having seen Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on Broadway and left largely unmoved, I approached this production with some trepidation.  Roald Dahl’s source material is so rich in wonder and possibility, yet the stage adaptation can feel surprisingly lacklustre.  It’s the kind of show where ambition can easily outstrip outcome; and I’ll admit, I wondered if Showbiz might have bitten off more than they could chew.

They hadn’t.

From the opening number, the production finds its footing with an exceptional vocal and orchestral mix.  Musical Director Richard Marrett draws a full, cohesive sound from a large ensemble, immediately signalling that this is a cohesive company working together with the precision we’ve all come to expect under his baton.  There’s absolute confidence in the musical storytelling that carries the audience with them.

The quartet of grandparents quickly establishes itself as a highlight.  Each character sharply drawn and hilariously engaging.  Across the cast, there’s a strong sense of commitment to character, with one memorable turn after another.  The delightfully over-the-top reporting duo of Cherry Sundae and Jerry Jubilee lean fully into their absurdity, providing moments of genuine comic joy (special mention to Jerry’s hair reaching soaring new heights).

Barnaby Domigan, in the titular role, is as endearing as he is talented, delivering a sweet and authentic performance that anchors the heart of the story.  Warwick Shillito as Grandpa Joe is wonderful—bringing genuine warmth and humour that perfectly complements the emotional core of the piece.  For me though, the standout performance came from Sophie Gilmore as Mrs Teavee.  Hilarious and precise, she delivers a masterclass in comic timing, grounding the humour in something recognisably and identifiably real.  Mums, do you feel me?  Bryn Monk grows into the role of Willy Wonka as the show progresses, delivering a particularly strong second half with a slightly more ‘unhinged’ and playful edge that delivers the Wonka we have come to expect.

The ensemble is vibrant and committed throughout, and the creative and staging choices; from the Oompa Loompas to the life-sized squirrels, add a sense of theatrical playfulness that keeps the world alive without dropping a beat.  I would name every single one of you if word-count allowed.

But in a production filled with strong performances, the true star is the design – particularly the costumes. Costume designer Stephen Robertson (who also directs) and Linda Harris, have created a wardrobe that is nothing short of extraordinary. This is “pure imagination” realised in fabric and form.  The creativity, detail, and craftsmanship elevate the entire production, bringing colour, texture, and wonder to every scene.

I attended with my 8-year-old son, who (in his own words) “L-O-V-E-D IT!”.  It’s a reminder that, whatever reservations adults might bring to the material, the magic still lands exactly where it should.

Ultimately, this is a show that succeeds where others haven’t.  Not by changing the material, but by fully committing to the vastness of its theatrical possibilities.  Showbiz Christchurch has taken on a challenging work and delivered something visually spectacular and joyfully realised.  (Slightly oversized) hats off to you all.  I know I’ll be going back for a second visit to the Chocolate Factory to enjoy this show without my reviewer glasses on, but simply to be transported, for a couple of hours, into your world of pure imagination.