BBCO Theatre Presents Willy Wonka

Bourbon County Community Theatre (BCCT) performs Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka (TYA - Theatre for Young Audiences), the organization’s first ever musical.

Performances are at 7 p.m. on Aug. 7 and at 2 and 7 p.m. on Aug. 8 at the Fort Scott High School Auditorium, 1005 S. Main.

“The delicious adventures experienced by Charlie Bucket on his visit to Willy Wonka's mysterious chocolate factory light up the stage in this captivating adaptation of Roald Dahl's fantastical tale. Featuring the enchanting songs from the 1971 film starring Gene Wilder, and new songs by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley, Roald Dahl's Willy Wonka TYA is a scrumdidilyumptious musical guaranteed to delight everyone's sweet tooth,” according to Music Theatre International. 

Over twenty adults and children from Fort Scott and Nevada portray Dahl’s iconic characters.

The show is directed by Angie Bin with musical direction by Taylor Jones, choreography by Abby Stepps, and stage management by Christina King. Chris Griffetts is designing the sets, sound design is by Tyler Slinkard, and lighting is by Sage Hill. Mark Bergmann is assisting with projections and Danette Popp is assisting with stage management.

“This production of Willy Wonka is a kind of milestone for me, as it is my 60th production as a Director,” Bin said. “Working with all of these other extremely talented adults to design a magical show is such a joy.”

“It has been an incredible experience to be part of the creative team,” said Stepps. “Working alongside such talented children, teens, and adults has been truly inspiring. The energy, imagination, and dedication everyone has brought to this production is a reminder that when a community comes together through the arts, the possibilities are truly endless.”

“Willy Wonka has been such an amazing learning experience for me, especially since I’m one year away from earning my Speech/Theatre Education degree,” King said. “Having the opportunity to fine tune my technical skills has been incredibly enriching. I hope our community welcomes us with open arms and connects with our story about the power of telling the truth and doing the right thing, even when it’s hard.”

The production is sponsored by Bourbon County Cars, After Effect Salon, Nevada AT&T, Museum of Creativity, Hedgehog Books, Marsha’s Deli, The Artificers, Riggs Chiropractic, Animal Care Center, Flowers by Leanna, and Liberty Savings. Hedgehog Books is giving away a copy of Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at each performance. 

Special Golden Tickets are hidden at Hedgehog Books, Marsha’s Deli, After Effect Salon, Flowers by Leanna, The Artificers, and the Museum of Creativity. Those who find a Golden Ticket at these businesses win a free ticket to the show.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $8 for children. All seating is reserved seating through bcct.ludus.com or tickets can be purchased at the door. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime.

Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka TYA is adapted for the stage by Leslie Bricusse and Timothy Allen Mcdonald. It is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI, www.mtishows.com