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| (Image Source: Manila Standard/GMG Productions) |
The cast of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory: The New Musical has officially arrived in Manila to present an upgraded version of the beloved stage production, featuring new illusions, immersive stagecraft, and a cast eager to share the magic with Filipino theatergoers. This marks the first time that Charlie And The Chocolate Factory: The New Musical is being staged in the Philippines. Ahead of its Manila run, the production held a press conference and Q&A session last July 9, 2026 at the Theatre at Solaire.
Before the press conference, members of the media were treated to a special preview featuring selected performances from the musical including “If Your Father Were Here”, “The Queen Of Pop”, and “I’ve Got A Golden Ticket”. The press conference began with the introduction of the five panelists: Resident Director Drew Cipollone, Cohen Toukatly and Oliver Wong who alternate in the role of Charlie Bucket, Giselle Amarisa Wong who plays Violet Beauregarde, and Filipina actress Karylle who portrays Mrs. Bucket. Cipollone shared that the touring production is based on the original Broadway version while incorporating new magical effects, fresh illusions, and a faster-paced presentation that audiences have not seen in previous productions. “This version has never been seen anywhere else in the world.” His statement further heightened the excitement and anticipation surrounding the Manila production. Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved novel, Charlie And The Chocolate Factory follows young Charlie Bucket as he embarks on the adventure of a lifetime after discovering a coveted Golden Ticket that grants him access to the mysterious and magical chocolate factory owned by Willy Wonka. Joining the Manila production is Filipina theater actress Karylle who shared that her journey into the musical began after watching the show in Singapore. “Ito ang kailangan ko today. Ito ang kailangan ko right now, and I felt free stepping into a world of pure imagination.” Karylle also spoke warmly about working alongside the two young actors who portray Charlie Bucket. “I also got to be a mom for the first time on stage.” She added, “There are certain scenes where they’ve really built my heart. So the journey is new to me, and it’s beautiful, and it’s something that right now I still haven’t had the courage to take.”
Wong, who joined the production during its Singapore stop last June, was asked about his experience becoming part of the cast. He answered, “It was amazing because I finally got to meet everyone and see the show with all the visual effects and stuff, so it really felt so real.” He also shared his admiration for the story. “I watched the movie. I loved it. I’m a huge fan.” Meanwhile, Toukatly, who has portrayed Charlie Bucket since the beginning of the tour, reflected on how his understanding of the character has evolved over time, stating, “Just maturing through the role and every night switching it up a little bit to find a new piece of the puzzle I’ve been missing. And I’m sure on tour, the longer you go, the more you find ways to keep it interesting.” Giselle, who plays Violet Beauregarde, explained that bringing the iconic character to life requires teamwork both on and off the stage. She emphasized that every magical transformation relies on the close collaboration of the costume, wig, and backstage crews. Cipollone also praised Filipino audiences for their enthusiastic energy during opening night, describing them as the most impressive theatergoers the company has encountered throughout the tour. The press conference concluded with a group photo opportunity featuring the five panelists. As the production continues its Manila run, the cast hopes audiences will experience the wonder, imagination, and inspiration that Charlie And The Chocolate Factory: The New Musical has to offer.
Charlie And The Chocolate Factory: The New Musical runs at the Theatre at Solaire until July 26, 2026. Tickets are available online through TicketWorld.
