A world of pure imagination: Why ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ is Hong Kong’s Golden Ticket

To bridge the gap between a reader’s imagination and the stage, the production incorporates 3D technology, projection mapping and illusions designed by a magic specialist from Las Vegas. Genatt describes the experience as a “mad, fabulously entertaining rollercoaster ride” that is completely immersive. From the spectacle of lighting effects at the end of the first act to the glass elevator—which operation the creative team is tight-lipped about—the technology is designed to, in Genatt’s words, “throw you out of your seat”.

In an era dominated by streaming and the rise of AI, the creators believe live theatre is more critical for humanity than ever. “In a live theatre, you’re creating these memories and raw emotions. The minute you’re sat there, it’s the energy that you feel. You don’t necessarily get that if you’re watching a flat screen,” says Genatt. While she acknowledges that AI might impact scriptwriting or technical show calling, she insists that the “human to human” connection remains sacred. “It is a place where people gather, where they leave their phones behind to be part of a community together in one space.”

It is also this same magic that attracted New York City-based actor Daniel Plimpton, who plays Willy Wonka, and 11-year-old Oliver Wong, who plays Charlie Bucket, to the world of musicals in the first place. Plimpton’s parents, though not performers themselves, were lovers of the arts who took him to shows until he decided, “I want to do that”.

Oliver’s journey began with “mommy and me” music classes and putting on “tiny plays” at home by age six. Oliver’s father, Jonathan Wong, says that while his son tried sports like soccer and baseball, his true passion was always for performing—once even dressing up as the Rat King from The Nutcracker to dance in front of the TV and participating in a regional show of The Lion King in Philadelphia, in which he played Simba.

The young actor, who is based in New Jersey, first came across the casting call for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory on social media, and decided to submit an audition tape and flew to New York City for the final rounds. Today, Oliver balances a demanding schedule of homeschooling and four hours of tutoring a day with the rigours of a global tour.

To both actors, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a dream in their acting career, not only because of the whimsical story; it’s also because of the message it carries and how relevant it is to anyone even long after Dahl’s time. “I’ve learned that there’s no wrong time to channel your own creation and childhood wonder, and that sharing that with people is a priceless gift,” Plimpton says. For Wong, it’s about finding inner strength. “Don’t judge a book by its cover. Charlie doesn’t have a lot, but that doesn’t mean that he can’t do anything. He’s still very powerful. And he’s so grateful for what he has. When he gets that chance to go to the factory, he’s lit up with hope,” he says.

When asked if audiences might eventually see a stage adaptation of the sequel, Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator, the team remains coy but hopeful. “Never say never,” says Cipollone. “It’s a book, it’s storytelling, and you never know what can happen.”

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