Charlie and the Chocolate Factory cast announced for tour and Leeds Playhouse

The upcoming Charlie and the Chocolate Factory musical tour has revealed its casting!

Based on the Roald Dahl book and film of the same name, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical tells the story of ‘golden ticket’ winner Charlie Bucket and mysterious confectionery maker Willy Wonka.

A new production from Leeds Playhouse will open at the venue (18 November 2022 to 28 January 2023) before touring the UK in 2023.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory cast

It’s been revealed that Gareth Snook (The Phantom of the Opera) will lead the cast as ‘Willy Wonka’ .

Playing the famous golden ticket winners are Kazmin Borrer (Veruca Salt), Teddy Hinde (Mike Teavee), Marisha Morgan (Violet Beauregarde) and Robin Simoes da Silva (Augustus Gloop).

They’ll be joined by Michael D’Cruze (Grandpa Joe), Christopher Howell (Grandpa George), Kate Milner Evans (Grandma Josephine), Julie Mullins (Grandma Georgina) and Leonie Spilsbury (Mrs Bucket)

Completing the adult company are Lydia Bradd, Darcie Brown, Josh Donovan, Ewan Gillies, Lucy Hutchinson, Patrick King, Jodie Knight, Jonathan Macdonald, Victoria Nicol, Katherine Picar, Lewis Rae, Emma Robotham-Hunt, Ty-Reece Stewart and Natasha Volley.

The role of Charlie Bucket will be shared in Leeds by Amelia Minto; Isaac Sugden; Kayleen Nguema and Noah Walton. Casting for the role on tour is to be announced.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory tour tickets, dates & venues »

The new production is directed by James Brining and designed by Simon Higlett.

When Charlie wins a golden ticket to the weird and wonderful Wonka Chocolate Factory, it’s a chance of a lifetime to feast on the sweets they’ve always dreamed of. But beyond the gates astonishment awaits, as down the sugary corridors and amongst the incredible and edible delights, the five lucky winners discover not everything is as sweet as it seems.

The musical adaptation has a book by David Greig, music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Mark Shaiman and Scott Wittman, plus songs from the iconic 1970s film.

Leeds Playhouse Artistic Director James Brining said: “We’re thrilled to have assembled such a fantastic cast and creative team for this new version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical in Leeds and for the UK tour. They are an exciting company that includes some brilliant fresh faces and rising stars with some hugely talented and experienced artists.

“I am really looking forward to working with them all in creating the world of this production. It is such a special story, loved by many generations, and we’re seeking to create a joyful, spectacular production for all. It’s a real privilege to have the opportunity to revisit the successful West End and Broadway versions and create a new production for audiences here in Leeds and on tour.”

About the author: Josh Darvill

Josh is Stageberry's editor with over five years of experience writing about theatre in the West End and across the UK. Prior to following his passion for musicals, he worked for more than a decade as a TV journalist.