This Easter must see: Charlie and The Chocolate factory

It’s one of the most magical stories from anyone’s childhood and, for some, adulthood. Roald Dahl’sCharlie and the Chocolate Factory– and the musical – opened at the Theatre on the Square in Sandton this week. It’s a fantastical tale with a hint of mischief and a bucketful of life lessons as the narrative unfolds.

It was penned by Dahl in 1964 and inspired, some say, by Dahl’s own experiences while visiting a chocolate factory as a child. Charlie Bucket is a less fortunate young boy who wins a golden ticket in the Wonka Bar competition to visit the famed Wonka chocolate factory. He’s joined by four other winners – brattish and the complete antithesis of his kind and well-mannered nature.

The adventure unfolds as the children are guided through the factory, with Oompa-Loompas colouring the journey as they make delicious treats. Then, one by one, the brats are tripped up by their own selfishness and, of course, Charlie prevails. His honesty and humility eventually earn him the true prize: Wonka’s empire. Charlie and the Chocolate Factoryruns until 11 April at the Theatre on the Square, with tickets available atWebtickets.