The musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is now set to begin its run a day earlier than expected at London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane. The Sam Mendes-helmed tuner will begin on May 17 (instead of the originally announced May 18), according to the U.K.'s Daily Mail. The musical's official opening night is scheduled for June 25.
Starring Tony winner Douglas Hodge as Willy Wonka, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory tells the whimsical story of Charlie, a boy who wins a golden ticket to the weird and wonderful Wonka Chocolate Factory. But beyond the gates astonishment awaits, as down the sugary corridors, and amongst the incredible edible delights, the five lucky winners discover not everything is as sweet as it seems.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory features a book by David Greig and music and lyrics by Tony winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. The production will feature set and costume design by Mark Thompson, choreography by Peter Darling, lighting design by Paul Pyant, sound design by Paul Arditti, orchestrations by Doug Besterman and video and projection design by Jon Driscoll.