PPAC Wins the Golden Ticket When Charlie Comes to Town

The National Tour of the hit musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory comes to Providence Performing Arts Center February 5 through 10.

Based on a children’s novel by Roald Dahl, the story features the adventures of young Charlie Bucket inside the chocolate factory of eccentric chocolatier Willy Wonka. It’s a fun show the entire family will be able to enjoy.

The songs from the original film are featured, including the classics “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket.”

The book was written by playwright David Greig with original score composed by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman.

Broadway veteran

plays Mrs. Teavee, the mother of Mike Teavee (Daniel Quadrino), one of the lucky children who gets a “golden ticket” to tour Wonka’s chocolate factory. Doherty, who grew up in Indiana, appeared in the Broadway productions of Les Misérables, A Christmas Carol, The Producers, Sister Act and Gigi.

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is so fabulous, I love it,” Doherty said. “Sister Act was such a great experience. It was incredible. It was directed by Jerry Zaks, who is just a genius at comedy. We were able to sing this great stuff. I played this really old anxious character (Sister Mary Theresa) but she danced and boogied with everybody.”

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was adapted for the screen in 1971, with Gene Wilder playing Wonka, and then again in 2005 with Johnny Depp in the role. The musical has remained beloved by a new generation of fans.

“I think people in general love when the underdog wins,” Doherty said. “Charlie’s story and journey really embodies that.”

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory runs February 5 – 10, Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset St., For tickets, call 401-421-ARTS or visit ppacri.org.