Rehearsals Continue for Ballywillan's "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory"

A cast of 50 local performers have been busy rehearsing for Ballywillan Drama Group’s upcoming production of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.’

Rehearsals started in September and with an ambitious score, challenging choreography and all of the iconic characters, the cast have their work cut out for them!

Sarah McIlhagga, a teacher from Ballymoney plays the part of the spoilt brat, Veruca Salt. “This is my first year with Ballywillan Drama Group and I am having the best time. Veruca is such a fun character to play because she is so horrible! I am really looking forward to audiences seeing her and also all of the special effects.”

Audiences may remember Chloe Freeman-Wallace from previous Ballywillan Drama Group shows and this year she is playing the role of gum-chomping Violet Beauregarde. “Violet is always chewing gum which can be a bit of a challenge when I am also trying to say lines. I love that she gets her own song and dance number and the ensemble dancers are doing a fantastic job.”

Tickets for the production are already starting to sell quickly with some performances either sold out or nearly sold out. Chair of the group, Laura Fisher has some advice for potential audiences; “Buy your tickets soon if you want to see this show. We are delighted with early sales and what a fabulous way to spend a cold evening in January or February!”

Ballywillan Drama Group’s ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ is sponsored by IDS Chartered Accountants, Coleraine and runs from 17 January to 1 February 2025 in the Riverside Theatre, Coleraine. Tickets are available from www.riversidetheatre.org.uk or from the theatre’s box office 028 70 123 123.