By Kevin Hendricks, The Paper.
Charlie Bucket is about to find his golden ticket in Sandoval County. Rio Rancho Creative Crossroads, partnering with Open Arts Studio NM, stages its first-ever children’s theatre production, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” with performances Friday, June 26, and Saturday, June 27, at 6:30 p.m. at the Bernalillo High School Black Box Theatre, 148 Spartan Alley. Doors open at 6 p.m.
The cast rehearsed at Sandoval Academy of Bilingual Education in Rio Rancho, adapting Roald Dahl’s story, dramatized by Richard R. George, of a boy who wins a tour through Willy Wonka’s factory alongside Augustus Gloop, Violet Beauregarde, Veruca Salt and the rest of the famously unlucky golden-ticket winners.
Producer Jen Doolittle said the show fills a gap for young performers on this side of the metro. “There is a tremendous need for children’s theatre opportunities in this area of town,” Doolittle said. “We are thrilled to help fill that need while giving young performers a chance to learn, grow, and shine on stage.”
Eleven-year-old Keegan Shackelford takes the lead as Charlie. “This is a dream role for me,” Shackelford said. “I’m especially excited to share the stage with my brother one last time before he heads off to college.”
Neal Shotwell, who founded Rio Rancho Creative Crossroads, said the production marks the group’s first step into children’s programming. Producer Kim Rothwell credited the turnout of young performers and the backing of local sponsors and government partners for getting the show to opening night.
Info Box
What: “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”
When: Friday, June 26 and Saturday, June 27; doors 6 p.m., curtain 6:30 p.m.
Where: Bernalillo High School Black Box Theatre, 148 Spartan Alley, Bernalillo
Tickets: $15 general / $10 educator, military, first responder / $5 student/youth
Buy online: rrcc.app.neoncrm.com/nx/portal/neonevents/events?path=%2Fportal%2Fevents%2F41812