Theater Review: 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' by New Paradigm

Review by Nancy Sasso Janis

The New Paradigm Theatre Co. has put together an enchanting production of “Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.” The unique theater company took to the stage at the beautifully remodeled auditorium at Stratford High School.

I quickly realized that although I have seen productions of Willy Wonka, this was the first time that I had experienced this musical version. “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is based on the famous novel by Roald Dahl and features a reimagined score composed by Marc Shaiman with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman (“Hairspray”) and a book by David Greig.

The score honors the Leslie Bricusse/Anthony Newley score from the 1971 film, with songs from the motion picture including "Candy Man," "I've Got a Golden Ticket," "Oompa Loompa Song," and "Pure Imagination." The licensing company indicates that the remaining 18 songs are brand new from Shaiman & Wittman and that the book is a much closer adaptation to the original novel by Roald Dahl.

The Paradigm audience gets to watch Willy Wonka, wonderfully portrayed by Equity actor Kyle Gonyea, open the gates to his mysterious factory, but only to the lucky few that can sing “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket.” Young Charlie Bucket is the best of those that embark on a life-changing journey through Wonka’s world of “Pure Imagination.”

Gonyea leads the cast as a mysterious and delightful Wonka, bringing out plenty of comedic elements to the character. Sam Tanzer, who was part of the NewArts production of Matilda, has the opportunity to work with the Broadway actor in the title role of Charlie Bucket. Tazer delivers a thoughtful and heartwarming performance that rises to the high expectations of this production.

Equity’s Lou Ursone plays Grandpa Joe to the hilt (“Charlie, You and I,”) while Bridget Wagar brings a heartfelt performance to Charlie’s Mrs. Bucket (“If Your Father Were Here.”). Charlie’s father does not appear in this version. John Moran plays Grandpa George. Chris Andrade is a riot as Grandma George, as is Dom Mantuano as Grandma Josephine.

Amelie McCool gets to work with a video of television meteorologist Matt Scott in her role as Cherry Sundae. Scott charms the audience as newscaster Jerry Jubilee.

Creflo Botweh takes on the role of device-addicted Mike Teevee and Barbara Distinti steals her scenes as Mrs. Teevee. Another adult scene stealer is David Cannizzaro in the role of Mr. Beauregarde, with Nola Somerville swinging into the role of as his gum-chewing daughter Violet (“The Queen of Pop.”). Lauren Eyerman played Violet at the other performances.

Helen Hen donning a tutu to play the demanding Veruca Salt and the local actor Vinnie McCoy is a delight as her Russian father. Marion Sherman Howard has fun in the role of Mrs. Gloop, who accompanies her son Augustus Gloop, played well by Joey Vasquez, on the candy factory tour.

Brennan Kelly and Abbey Rizzo play Wonka assistants. Julia Allen steps out of the ensemble to play the street vendor Ms. Green. In the ensemble are Kinelle Botweh (Mike Swing,) Carmella Brown, Nana Botweh, Dance Captain Nati Habenmarian (Veruca Swing,) Alexios Selearis (Charlie Understudy,)

The creative team of New Paradigm is led by Equity member Kristin Huffman, who was both producer and director of this polished production. Chris Coogan is the wonderful music director, conducting the musicians and cueing the singers. Equity’s Blanca Grande served as choreographer of the fun dances. Liz Popiel, yes the professor at WCSU, was responsible for the colorful stage design that included fanciful projections by Parker Krey. Chris Amdrade was in charge of the delightful props, as well as being the set builder and painting his work alongside Andrew Reimann.

Professional lighting designer Elizabeth M. Stewart lit the beautiful Stratford High stage and Jim Durkin of In Phase Audio was in charge of the sound design. Mark Holleran is credited with special effects and videos.

Kudos to Thomas Gordon for the charming costume design. Gordon was assisted by Kirsten Baker.

The New Paradigm Theatre Co. has produced a high-quality show with excellent production values and a well-rehearsed cast that got work alongside the Broadway pros. I look forward to reviewing their future productions. The closing performance of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” is Sunday at 3pm.

Nancy Sasso Janis, a graduate of Bunnell High School, calls Stratford her hometown.