Review: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Jr.
Picture: The full cast (1pm matinee), Image credit: Creative Futures Photography
If you follow Creative Futures, then you will know that I am a huge fan of Superstars and the work of their talented teachers. Known for their dance, drama and singing classes, the Superstars teachers focus on developing children’s self-confidence, concentrating ‘on each child’s individual development rather than rigorous rote-learning routines or perfection.’ Founded 23 years ago by Rach Tiernan, the Superstars values centre on positivity, kindness, and community—which means that Superstars concerts and performances are always joyful occasions.
The 2026 production of Roald Dahl's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Jr. was another excellent. The Broadway Junior adaptation of the Broadway and West End musical was an excellent choice for this mainstage Superstars production. Take one much-loved story, build on the successes of the 2005 film, sprinkle in the talents of the Superstars students (and their families and friends), and stir well. Under the leadership and direction of the talented Gabriella Flowers (‘Miss Flowers’), you have a memorable and quite delectable show.
So many scrumptious things to mention, but the list must start with the beautiful sets and costumes. The Superstars team may not be able to call on Broadway budgets, but the team is so creative with the funds and materials to hand. The Bucket family bedroom set was superb. The initial reveal of the Wonka factory interior was met with gasps of delight, and I loved the way in which the performers interacted with the delicious set. And the quick changes through each of the ‘elimination rounds’ of the ticketholders was so well done. Favourite costumes were those worn by our talented Willy Wonka, by the Oompa-Loompas, and by the very cute squirrels. But all of the costumes were so well chosen, and I was impressed by the many quick changes—including the excellent performances by Jerry Jubilee and Cherry Sundae, who managed their quick-fire costume changes and on-the-spot news reporting and new anchor exchanges with aplomb.
Picture: Squirrels and Oompa-Loompas, Credit: Creative Futures Photography.
Picture: Wonka’s world (Image credit: Creative Futures Photography).
Picture: Charlie & Willy Wonka in the elevator Credit: Creative Futures Photography.
Picture: Grandpa Joe, Charlie, and Wonka Image credit: Creative Futures Photography.
My congratulations to each of the students who took to the stage. Willy Wonka, Charlie and Grandpa Joe are the official ‘stars’ of the show, but every actor impressed and inspired the audience. Miss Flowers really inspired each of the actors to bring their talents to the stage. It was so lovely to watch the talented actors grace the boards of the Marjorie Godfrey Theatre stage—and to watch proud parents and family members congratulate every child after the show.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Jr. is cleverly written to allow Directors to cast a sizeable ensemble, across the show, and in the dance numbers. As Superstars is so well known for dance teaching, it is unsurprising that the dancing was also excellent—particularly the Oompa-Loompas’ dancing and singing, but also a special mention for the Mike Teavee ‘TV’ scene
It is wonderful to hear that Superstars has such a strong drama program, attracting so many talented and enthusiastic students and enabling Miss Flowers to cast two students as Charlie (Charley starred in the 1m matinees, with Emily performing as Charlie in the 6pm show). The matinee was great fun, and I am sure I am not alone in wishing I had tickets for the 6pm show—not only to experience the joyful production all over again, but also to admire how the students work together with a different cast member as Charlie. I hear that the Superstars team are already planning for a 2027 dramatic show—but first they are all getting ready to shine at their 2026 end-of-year concert.
Audience information: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Jr., Marjorie Godfrey Theatre Cavendish Road State School, Holland Park, 4121 (18 October 2026). Chocolate themes (!), all ages. 100 minutes, including interval. Tickets $35.
Additional Credits: Produced by Superstars. Based on the novel by Roald Dahl: Book by David Greig, Music by Marc Shaiman, Lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, and Songs from the Motion Picture by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory JR is presented through special arrangement with, and all authorised performance materials are supplied by, Music Theatre International (Australasia). www.mtishows.com.au
The reviewer attended the 18 October 2026, 1pm matinee.