Santa Monica College Presents 'Willy Wonka' Musical

SANTA MONICA, CA — The Santa Monica College Theatre Arts Department is performing Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka – TYA (Theatre for Young Audiences) Version from July 12-21 at the Theatre Arts Studio Stage on the main SMC campus.

Show times are 7 p.m. on Friday, July 12; Saturday, July 13; Friday, July 19; and Saturday, July 20. Matinees are at 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 13; Sunday, July 13; Saturday, July 20; and Sunday, July 21.

"The play presents the timeless story of world-famous candy man Willy Wonka and his quest to find an heir," the Santa Monica College press release said. "Wonka holds a contest awarding tickets to a free tour of his chocolate factory and a lifetime chocolate supply. The quest comes to chocolate-covered life as the five winning children — one likable boy and four brats — learn they must follow Mr. Wonka's rules, or else."

The play is based on Roald Dahl's book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which was adapted for the stage by Leslie Bricusse and Timothy Allen McDonald, with music and lyrics by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley. The SMC production is directed by Adrianne Harrop, with music direction by Gary Gray and choreography by Sheraye Esfandyari, the press release said.

Advance tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for children ages 3 through 12 plus a service charge. Tickets are free for children under 3 when they're seated on a lap. Tickets can be purchased by going to smc.edu/studiostage or by calling 310-434-4319 Monday through Friday. Tickets are $3 more at the door. Parking is free on Friday evenings and weekends.

The main SMC campus is located at 1900 Pico Blvd. in Santa Monica.