Review: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at Argenta Contemporary Theatre

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This yummy funhouse plays through May 9

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Everytime I step foot into the beautiful Argenta Contemporary Theatre in North Little Rock, I am whisked away by the theatrical magic that entrances me and makes me feel like I have just entered another world that only the lucky few get to experience. This time they took me to the universe of Willy Wonka with their production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory , running through May 9. From the moment you step inside, the space feels transformed, instantly welcoming theatre lovers into a world of Pure Imagination , where anything feels possible and wonder is waiting around every corner. Directed by Coburn Goss , with choreography by Brian Earles and music direction by Sally Howell, this production doesn’t just begin when the curtain rises, it starts the second you walk through the doors.

Based on the beloved story by Roald Dahl , this musical adaptation features a book by David Greig , with music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman. The story follows young Charlie Bucket, a kind-hearted boy who finds one of five golden tickets granting access to the mysterious Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. Alongside four other children each with their own over-the-top personalities, Charlie embarks on a journey filled with life lessons, dazzling sights, and unforgettable music, including classics like “The Candy Man” and “Pure Imagination.”

Coburn Goss ’ direction leans beautifully into the theme of imagination, but what makes this production especially intriguing is how it subtly shifts the tone of the familiar story. What many of us remember as a whimsical, candy-coated adventure takes on a slightly darker, more offbeat edge here, transforming Wonka’s world into something that feels a bit like a bizarre funhouse. The Oompa Loompas, in particular, bring a delightfully, crazy-eyed, eerie energy, leaning into their role as moral messengers with a quirky intensity that makes you both laugh and think twice about grabbing that extra piece of candy.

Of course, at the heart of it all are Case Dillard as Willy Wonka and Gus Wilder Howell as Charlie Bucket, two performances that lead us through this crazy world. Dillard’s Wonka is mesmerizing, filled with a playful unpredictability, but what truly captivated me was that unmistakable twinkle in his eye when he sang about his creations. You could see how deeply he loved this world he built, how much pride and joy lived in every note. Howell brings such an earnest, grounded sincerity to the role that he becomes the emotional center of the production. His Charlie is full of curiosity and kindness, and when paired with Dillard, there’s a beautiful, unspoken connection. You can feel Wonka seeing himself in this young boy, turning the story into one about legacy and trust.

This show thrives on its pairings, and each coupling brings its own unique flavor of comedy and character work to the stage. I especially loved Leigh Anne Ralston as Mrs. Gloop and Peyton Greenwood as Augustus Gloop. Their over-the-top indulgence and comedic timing made them such a joy to watch, and honestly, we were sad to see them be the first to go.

The Beauregardes were a fantastic team as well, with Jeremiah James Herman and Evanee Dra'a bringing bold energy to their scenes. And that moment when Violet disappears and the giant purple ball comes out to be bounced around? Pure theatrical fun! I’ll admit, I low key thought they might bounce her out into the audience, but even without that, it was a standout visual gag that had everyone buzzing.

The Salt family delivered big laughs, with Brandon Paul Eells completely transforming into Mr. Salt—I didn’t even recognize him!—and Makenzie H Burks making me fall in love with “When Veruca Says.” As Dance Captain, she absolutely proved her worth, especially with her elegant ballet twirls that added an extra level of polish to her already standout performance.

And then there’s the Teevee family. I love me some Patti Airoldi, and she was hysterical as Mrs. Teevee. Paired with Max Gunther as Mike Teevee, they told a surprisingly sweet, quick story of a mother’s love for her son. When he became teeny tiny and she was able to place him in her purse, you could see the genuine joy and appreciation in her eyes, a small but touching moment.

Another hilarious duo were Jerry and Cherry, played by Jharel Jerez and Ivy McGrew, who were animated and absolutely nailed their roles as exaggerated TV reporters, adding a fun layer of commentary throughout the show.

The one person my heart truly ached for, though, was Mrs. Bucket, played by Abby Jo Windsor. Windsor brings such warmth and quiet strength to the role, highlighting the reality of a mother carrying the full weight of her family. Not only are they poor—eating raw vegetables—but she is the sole provider, which makes you wonder…where is Mr. Bucket? And if those grandparents have been in that bed for 40 years, how is any of this even livable? It’s a moment where the whimsical world meets a more grounded reality, and Windsor handles it beautifully.

And speaking of those grandparents, Mark Hansen as Grandpa Joe, Susan Thomey as Grandma Josephine, Jamie Boshears as Grandma Georgina, and Chip McAfee as Grandpa George are a delightful quartet, bringing humor and personality even while confined to that famously crowded bed. Though I wenced at what that might actually smell like, I loved the humor and comraderie to their scenes.

This cast is absolutely stacked with A-list local talent, and the special appearance by Judy Trice—truly Arkansas theatre royalty—is the icing on the cake.

And let me tell you, the night I attended felt like a true “who’s who” of Central Arkansas theatre. Seeing so many familiar faces in the audience only heightened the excitement and reinforced the incredible sense of community that filled the room. That spirit is no accident. With new leadership led by Coburn Goss as Artistic Director and Jeremy Williams as Executive Director, Argenta Contemporary Theatre is clearly prioritizing connection and collaboration, bringing together North Little Rock and the surrounding theatrical coterie in a way that feels both intentional and inspiring. With a new season that includes several titles that are new-to-me, it’s exciting to watch this leadership guide the theatre into its next chapter.

And if this production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is any indication of what’s to come, you’re going to want to be part of it. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic and talent this show has to offer. Grab your golden ticket at https://www.argentacontemporarytheatre.org/ and go see it before it’s gone!

Thank you Royce West for these wonderful photos!

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_Originally reported by [BroadwayWorld](https://www.broadwayworld.com/little-rock/article/Review-CHARLIE-AND-THE-CHOCOLATE-FACTORY-at-Argenta-Contemporary-Theatre-in-North-Little-Rock-20260503)._