“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” — a childhood dream bursting with candy, magic, and wonder — will make its Shenzhen debut with eight performances from tomorrow evening through Nov. 9.

A dance scene from "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." Photos courtesy of Shenzhen Poly Theater

Adapted from Roald Dahl’s beloved book, this Broadway musical brings Willy Wonka’s fantastical world to life, complete with chocolate waterfalls, glass elevators, and nut-sorting squirrels.

First-ever tour to the Chinese mainland

Produced by Broadway International Group, this tour brings together top theatrical talent for a newly upgraded production. 

The creative team is led by producers Simon Gennat and Mark Rossell — recipients of multiple Tony and Olivier awards — alongside director Jack O’Brien, a four-time Tony Award winner. The touring version is directed by theatrical veteran Matt Lenz.

The music and lyrics come from a Tony Award-winning creative team: Marc Shaiman composed the score, while Shaiman and Scott Wittman co-wrote the lyrics. The book is by David Greig. 

Wonka’s factory is a sweet dreamland.

Visually, the production is led by Olivier Award winner Mark Thompson (set and costume design), in collaboration with Jeff Sugg (video and projection design) and Basil Twist (puppetry design).

The musical score revisits beloved melodies from the film adaptations — including “The Candy Man,” “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket,” and “Pure Imagination” — while also blending original songs across multiple genres and diverse dance elements. 

Audiences can look forward to a spectacular mix of rap, R&B, rock, yodeling, ballet, modern street dance, and Bavarian Schuhplattler, all presented in clever and stunning ways.

An immersive stage experience is achieved through 3D holographic projection and innovative lighting design, with visual effects extending to the side walls and ceiling of the auditorium. 

Audience members will feel transported into a world of savory German sausages, dreamlike bubble gum, and intricate chocolate pipes beneath a starry sky.

The musical premiered in London’s West End before moving to Broadway (2017–2018) and embarking on a four-year North American tour with over 300 performances. It earned seven Olivier Award nominations, winning for Best Lighting and Best Costume Design.

A candy-coated fable for the entire family

The story follows Charlie Bucket, a kind-hearted boy who wins a golden ticket to visit Wonka’s mysterious factory. Alongside four spoiled children — each punished for their gluttony, greed, arrogance, or anger — Charlie learns that virtue outshines vice and brings the ultimate reward.

Beneath the candy-coated whimsy lies a sharp adult fable, critiquing overindulgent parenting and societal excess.

Charlie Bucket wins a golden ticket to visit Wonka’s mysterious factory.

Since its publication in 1964, the book has sold more than 20 million copies across 55 languages and inspired three major film adaptations (1971’s “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory,” 2005’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” and 2023’s “Wonka”), which have collectively grossed over US$700 million worldwide.

During the show’s five-day run, the lobby of Shenzhen Poly Theater will be transformed into an immersive dreamland, offering plenty of photo opportunities for fans to capture and cherish their sweetest memories.

Tickets: 180-980 yuan

Tel: (0755) 8637-1698/99

Time: Nov. 5-9

Venue: Shenzhen Poly Theater, Nanshan District (南山区深圳保利剧院)

Metro: Line 2, 11, or 13 to Houhai Station (后海站), Exit E