Palm Canyon Theatre opens 29th season with 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' ⋆ The Palm Springs Post

*Desmond McLeod plays Charlie in the Palm Canyon Theatre production of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ that kicks off the production company’s 29th season in October.*

Palm Canyon Theatre will kick off its 29th season with a production of Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” featuring a cast of 41 performers including young artists from the theater’s summer kids camp.

The musical runs Oct. 3-12 and uses the 2017 Broadway adaptation, which combines new songs with familiar favorites such as “Pure Imagination” and “The Candy Man.” The production’s book was written by David Greig, with music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman.

Desmond McLeod stars as Charlie, the wide-eyed dreamer who discovers a golden ticket that grants him entry to Willy Wonka’s mysterious candy factory. Scott Clinkscales takes on the role of the world’s most famous candy maker, Willy Wonka.

The story follows Charlie and four other golden ticket winners as they tour the factory and learn lessons along the way. Vito Orlando plays Augustus Gloop, while Fiona Sarchett portrays Veruca Salt, Kathleen Atkins appears as Violet Beauregard, and Steffon Martindale takes on Mike Teavee.

The production includes several family members and supporting characters, with Luke Rainey as Grandpa Joe and Georgia Smith as Mrs. Bucket. The creative team is led by Director Se Layne, Musical Director Chuck Peery, and Choreographer Tegr Powell.

The cast features performers of various ages from the local community, including students and adult actors working together in the intergenerational production.

Evening performances begin at 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, with Thursday shows at 7 p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Adult tickets cost $46 including fees, while student tickets are priced at $20, with group discounts available.

Details: The theater is located at 538 North Palm Canyon Drive at the corner of Alejo Road and Palm Canyon Drive. Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office at 760-323-5123 or online at palmcanyontheatre.org, with box office hours Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.