Roald Dahl’s beloved story Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is set to make its Southeast Asian debut in Singapore at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands in May 2026. Presented by Base Entertainment Asia in association with Broadway International Group and Broadway Asia, the production brings audiences into a world of pure imagination filled with chocolate rivers, Oompa-Loompas, magical inventions, and unforgettable music.
Based on Roald Dahl’s globally beloved novel, the musical follows young Charlie Bucket’s golden-ticket adventure into the mysterious world of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. The production features iconic songs from the classic 1971 film including Pure Imagination, The Candy Man, and I’ve Got a Golden Ticket, alongside original music by Grammy® and Tony Award® winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.
While the musical is known for its spectacular stagecraft, larger-than-life characters, and immersive theatrical experience, at the heart of the story is Charlie Bucket, a character whose kindness, humility, and optimism continue to resonate with audiences across generations.
Ahead of the Singapore production, we speak with Oliver Wong, who plays Charlie Bucket, about bringing the iconic character to life on stage and what audiences can look forward to when the musical arrives at Sands Theatre.
Inside the Heart of Charlie Bucket
Directed by Matt Lenz with choreography by Alison Solomon, the global tour of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory combines imaginative storytelling with impressive theatrical illusions and visual effects. Renowned Las Vegas magic and illusion designer Tim Clothier also joins the Broadway creative team to help transform Willy Wonka’s fantastical factory into a world where the impossible feels possible.
Amidst all the spectacle, Oliver Wong believes Charlie’s sincerity is what truly anchors the story emotionally.
Throughout the musical, Charlie remains grounded despite the extraordinary world unfolding around him. His appreciation for the little things and unwavering kindness offer a strong contrast to the louder and more exaggerated personalities he encounters inside the factory.
For Oliver Wong, portraying Charlie is less about performing a role and more about sharing the character’s warmth naturally with audiences.
Interview with Oliver Wong on Playing Charlie Bucket
Headshots for Oliver Wong. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography, February 10, 2026
1. Charlie Bucket is often described as the emotional heart of the story. How do you approach portraying his kindness and optimism in a way that feels natural and sincere on stage?
Oliver Wong: I’m not really pretending to be kind. I want every single audience member to feel Charlie’s kindness. I like to think that I’m spreading kindness to the people in the audience, so it doesn’t feel like acting—it just feels like I’m sharing something good. I also try to enjoy the little moments, because Charlie finds happiness in small things… even something like a used chocolate wrapper feels exciting to him.
2. In a production filled with bold characters and spectacular moments, how do you ensure that Charlie’s quieter presence still stands out and connects with the audience?
Oliver Wong: I think it’s Charlie’s kindness that really stands out. Even when there are big, crazy things happening on stage, I try to always stay in the moment and react as Charlie. When something crazy happens, Charlie usually has a concerned look and is taking everything in, and I try to show that to the audience. Sometimes being quieter helps, because people notice those small reactions more.
3. The story explores themes like humility, patience, and gratitude. How do these values come through in your performance without feeling overly lesson-driven?
Oliver Wong: I think the fun and humor of the show make it feel less like a lesson. The audience gets to enjoy everything in the moment, and then afterwards they can think more about it and what it means. I just focus on being honest as Charlie, and if it feels real, I think the audience can feel that too.
4. The Bucket family plays an important role in shaping who Charlie is. How has working with the cast portraying his family influenced your interpretation of the character?
Oliver Wong: The actors who play my family are really amazing, and they make it feel like we’re a real family on stage. We spent time getting to know each other during rehearsals in New York City and China, which helped me feel really comfortable and connected to them. I think you can see that connection on stage. It makes it easier to show how much Charlie loves them, because it feels natural and not forced.
5. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has been loved across generations. From your perspective, what makes Charlie such a relatable and enduring character for both children and adults today?
Oliver Wong: Charlie is a story about a boy who dreams big and succeeds by staying true to himself, even with all the crazy people and situations around him. He doesn’t have a lot, but he appreciates everything he does have. I think that’s something both kids and adults can relate to, no matter where they’re from. Everyone dreams about finding their own version of a golden ticket…and drinking face first from a chocolate fountain!
6. On a personal level, what do you find most meaningful or rewarding about playing Charlie?
Oliver Wong: I love being able to tell Charlie’s story and spread his kindness. I love knowing that the audience might leave the theatre smiling or thinking about what really matters. Getting to be part of that is really meaningful to me.
7. This production is known for its imaginative world and large-scale stagecraft. What has been the most exciting or memorable part of being part of this production?
Oliver Wong: I’ve totally lucked out being part of such an amazing cast and company. They’re always looking out for me and Cohen, who also plays Charlie, and everyone is so warm and friendly. I’ve learned a lot from them about professional theatre, and we’ve had a TON of fun along the way.
8. What would you like audiences in Singapore to take away from your portrayal of Charlie when they come to watch the show at Sands Theatre?
Oliver Wong: I hope audiences in Singapore have an amazing time coming to watch the show. I hope they enjoy all the cool special effects, the music, and all the fun moments—but also connect with Charlie’s story. I hope they leave feeling happy and inspired by Charlie… and maybe wishing they could find a golden ticket too.
With its combination of beloved music, imaginative storytelling, magical stagecraft, and heartfelt themes, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory promises to deliver an unforgettable theatrical experience for audiences in Singapore.
Beyond the spectacle and fantasy, the musical also reminds audiences about the importance of kindness, gratitude, family, and staying true to oneself, values embodied through Charlie Bucket’s journey.
As the production makes its first stop in Southeast Asia at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, theatre lovers and families alike can look forward to stepping into Willy Wonka’s extraordinary world of pure imagination.
Ticketing Information
Performance Season
From 19 May 2026
Performance Venue
Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands
Performance Schedule (Singapore Time)
Tuesdays to Fridays; 8pm
Saturdays; 2pm and 8pm
Sundays; 1pm and 6.30pm
Performance Duration
2 hours 10 minutes including a 20-minute intermission
Performance Ticket Booking Links
Marina Bay Sands Ticketing:
https://www.marinabaysands.com/entertainment/shows/charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory.html
SISTIC: https://sistic.com.sg/events/catcf0626
Klook: https://www.klook.com/en-US/activity/174225/
