Little Theatre to hold auditions for ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’

The Little Theatre of Tuscarawas County will hold auditions for its 2026 summer production of “Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.”

Auditions will take place Sunday, April 26, and Monday, April 27, at 6:30 p.m. at the theater, 466 Carrie Ave. NW, New Philadelphia. Registration opens at 6 p.m. Callbacks will be held Wednesday, April 29, at 6:30 p.m.

Auditions are open only to individuals who will complete seventh grade at the end of the 2025-26 school year.

The production is directed by Joe Compton, with Francis Brogan as assistant director, Megan Sams as music director and Abigail Zeedyk as choreographer. Producers are Josie McCutcheon and David Rutter.

Organizers plan to cast about 20-25 actors. All roles are open, with some requiring physical agility or movement on knees.

The musical features a book by David Greig, music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman, based on the novel by Roald Dahl. Songs from the motion picture were written by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley.

The story follows young Charlie Bucket and four other golden ticket winners as they tour Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory, encountering chocolate waterfalls, nutty squirrels and the great glass elevator along the way.

Principal roles include Willy Wonka, Charlie Bucket, Grandpa Joe, Mrs. Bucket, Augustus Gloop, Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde and Mike Teavee, along with several featured and ensemble roles.

Rehearsals will be held Sundays through Thursdays from 6-9 p.m., beginning the week of May 4. Some Saturday rehearsals may be scheduled as needed, and some early rehearsals may take place off-site.

Performances are scheduled for June 26-28, July 3, 5 and 10-12. There will be no performance July 4, and two performances are planned July 11.

Those auditioning should prepare a one-minute selection from a musical theater song and bring an instrumental or karaoke track without backing vocals. A piano accompanist and Bluetooth speaker will be available. Auditioners also should be prepared for a dance or movement portion and to read from a provided monologue.

Any questions may be directed to Compton at 15comptonj@gmail.com.

The production is sponsored by TuscoMFG and Bruce and Suzanne Stauffer. The 2025-26 season is sponsored by Roger and Mary Spies, Dover Eagles No. 515 and Park Village Health Care Center.