The moment audiences step into Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, they are transported into a whimsical world where imagination runs wild, chocolate rivers, fantastical inventions, and delightful surprises come to life on stage. Making its highly anticipated Southeast Asian debut, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory arrives in Singapore as a visually spectacular Broadway musical that blends nostalgia, humour, fantasy, and heartfelt storytelling into one unforgettable theatrical experience.
Presented by Broadway International Group and Broadway Asia, in association with Base Entertainment Asia, the internationally acclaimed production began its Singapore season on 19 May 2026 and will run until 14 June 2026 for a strictly limited season at Sands Theatre. Based on Roald Dahl’s globally beloved novel, the musical follows the story of young Charlie Bucket, a kind-hearted boy who discovers one of five coveted Golden Tickets hidden inside Wonka chocolate bars. The ticket grants him access to the mysterious chocolate factory run by the eccentric Willy Wonka, where every room reveals astonishing inventions, magical surprises, and important life lessons. Featuring iconic songs from the classic 1971 film including “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” alongside original Broadway music by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, the production combines timeless nostalgia with large-scale theatrical spectacle.
We interviewed 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. Read our full interview with Oliver Wong here.
For many audience members, the story carries a deep sense of nostalgia. Generations have grown up reading the novel or watching the classic film adaptations, but seeing the magical factory brought to life on stage adds an entirely new level of wonder. From the opening scenes, the production embraces theatrical imagination wholeheartedly, transforming the stage into a vibrant fantasy world packed with oversized candy creations, inventive visual effects, dazzling lighting, and playful choreography.
At the centre of the production is Daniel Plimpton as Willy Wonka, delivering a performance that feels both charismatic and intriguingly mysterious. Rather than portraying Wonka purely as an eccentric chocolatier, Plimpton brings warmth and emotional depth to the role while maintaining the character’s mischievous unpredictability. His stage presence effortlessly commands attention, particularly during “Pure Imagination,” which becomes one of the evening’s standout moments. His vocals are polished, expressive, and perfectly suited to the whimsical tone of the musical.
The role of Charlie Bucket is shared by young performers Cohen Toukatly and Oliver Wong, both bringing warmth, sincerity, and youthful innocence to the beloved character. Toukatly, who makes his international professional debut in the production, captures Charlie’s kindness and determination beautifully, while Wong brings a natural charm and emotional authenticity to the role. Their performances help anchor the production emotionally amidst all the larger-than-life spectacle surrounding Wonka’s magical factory.
Steve McCoy, a veteran touring performer who has played Grandpa Joe in more than 370 performances worldwide, brings both humour and heart to the role. His lively stage energy and natural rapport with the audience make Grandpa Joe one of the production’s most endearing characters.
The supporting cast injects the musical with energy and personality from start to finish. Allison Gann’s Veruca Salt is wonderfully spoiled and hilariously demanding, while Giselle Amarisa Watts delivers an energetic and confident performance as Violet Beauregarde. DJ Plunkett’s Mike Teavee provides plenty of comic relief with his sarcastic delivery and modern attitude, while Sam Nackman embraces Augustus Gloop’s exaggerated gluttony with scene-stealing comedic timing.
Visually, the production is consistently impressive. The elaborate set pieces, immersive projections, colourful costumes, and inventive stage illusions create a sense of constant discovery. The creative team smartly balances Broadway spectacle with storytelling rather than relying solely on effects. Every major factory sequence feels distinct, ensuring the audience remains visually engaged throughout the production.
One particularly notable aspect of the Singapore staging is how the experience extends beyond the theatre itself. Guests are welcomed by a specially designed chocolate-themed photo wall created in collaboration with acclaimed Singaporean chocolatier and chef-artist, Janice Wong. Crafted using chocolate paint and edible chocolate elements, the installation transforms the theatre entrance into an interactive extension of Wonka’s imaginative universe.
The production also introduces the “Wonka’s Surprise Golden Ticket Campaign,” described by organisers as one of the largest audience engagement activations staged for a musical in Singapore. More than 8,000 Golden Tickets have been hidden beneath selected theatre seats throughout the show’s run, giving audiences the chance to discover prizes ranging from dining experiences and retail treats to beauty rewards and exclusive collectibles. It cleverly captures the same excitement and anticipation that defines the original story itself.
Musically, the production succeeds in balancing beloved classics with fresh theatrical arrangements. Iconic songs including “The Candy Man,” “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” and “Pure Imagination” remain crowd favourites, while the newer Broadway compositions blend seamlessly into the narrative. Under the musical supervision of Nate Patten and Greg Jarrett, the score feels lively, polished, and emotionally engaging throughout.
What makes this production especially successful is that beneath all the visual spectacle lies a timeless and relatable message. Themes of kindness, humility, greed, family, and imagination remain just as meaningful today as when the novel was first published. The musical never loses sight of its emotional core, reminding audiences why Charlie Bucket continues to resonate across generations.
For families, theatre lovers, and longtime fans of the story, delivers a genuinely entertaining Broadway experience filled with charm, wonder, humour, and heart. It is the kind of production that leaves audiences smiling long after the curtain falls.
Ticketing Information
Performance Season
From 19 May 2026 to 14 June 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/
All images credit to Base Entertainment Asia
