BTC Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (2022) by Bendigo Theatre Company

YOUTH THEATRE

presents its 201st production

Performed 7-10 July 2022 at Ulumbarra Theatre BOOK BY

David Greig

MUSIC BY

Marc Shaiman

LYRICS BY

Scott Wittman & Marc Shaiman

BASED ON THE NOVEL BY ROALD DAHL SONGS FROM THE MOTION PICTURE BY

Leslie Bricusse & Anthony Newley

LICENSED EXCLUSIVELY BY MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL (AUSTRALASIA)

It is with great pleasure that the company is able to bring you the wonderful, zany, crazy, exciting world of Willy Wonka through our major musical for 2022, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The company’s decision to do this musical was made with much thought and it was further decided that due to the number of adult and children’s roles it would be a joint production of Tribe Youth Theatre and Bendigo Theatre Company. This decision was a first as we have not combined both groups to create a musical since Tribe was initiated in 2017. Although it has been an exciting concept to produce this show it also brought its challenges as the settings, costumes and music require a considerable amount of creative energy and hard work. It was also decided that contrary to the professional show we would invite children from 10+ to audition to be Oompa Loompas, and this contributed to the cast being one the largest we have had for many years. It is certainly a leap of faith to decide to produce a show of this magnitude in the current health situation, so the additional use of understudies was implemented from the outset. There have been the usual interruptions, illnesses and unplanned events but through it all the cast has maintained a strong work ethic and they have worked tirelessly to bring this show to you. My thanks to the creative team for their work and in particular, Emily Calder, Thomas Moore, Lisa Kearin, and Amanda Eagle. Your hard work and dedication will be rewarded with each performance, I am sure. To all the rest of that wonderful creative team who provide countless hours of voluntary time and worked so hard to produce such exciting sets, costumes, lighting, audio, properties, and publicity - a huge thank you. To the BTC Committee of Management and all other volunteers and parents we are indebted to you for your assistance. Finally to the audience members who choose to attend our performances and help resurrect the Arts in Bendigo after such a difficult period of time recently, we are forever grateful. Now we ask that you sit back and enjoy the show as we proudly present the 2022 musical production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. VERN WALL President, Bendigo Theatre Company

Everyone loves a good story, where the hero or heroine comes out victorious and the antagonist gets their deserved comeuppance. Roald Dahl has been delighting generations of readers with his tantalising stories - often unsentimental, darkly comic and sometimes a little macabre - for more than 80 years. Amongst his works are the well-known stories of Matilda, The Witches, The BFG, James and the Giant Peach, Fantastic Mr Fox and George’s Marvellous Medicine. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with its larger-than-life characters and impoverished but kindhearted protagonist Charlie, could be argued to be one of his most famous works. Roald Dahl’s works have a strong moral compass, he is quick to champion the generous and kind-hearted whilst condemning moral failings such as greed and selfishness in his characters. These themes are strong in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Dahl attributes the behaviour and character of the Golden Ticket winning children to the treatment and care of their parents. Dahl’s works often portray villainous adults and parental figures, whilst the protagonists are predominantly children and often the underdog, who possess an inherent goodness enabling them to succeed in their pursuits. EMILY CALDER

VERN WALL Production Manager

EMILY CALDER Director

AMANDA EAGLE Musical Director

Vern has enjoyed a long association with theatre since the early 1970’s and was involved with theatre groups throughout Victoria during his teaching career. On arrival in Bendigo in 1993 he joined BTC and has held the roles of Actor, Director, Set Designer, Committee member, President and Vice President since that time. He was awarded a BTC Life Membership in 2007.

Theatre, music and the arts are for everyone! On stage or as the audience, creativity is inherently human and sharing this gift of deep connection can be a life changing experience. You might wonder how does one become the director of such a fantastic show? The answer… lots of practice, hard work and pushing one’s personal comfort barriers.

Having recently moved to Heathcote, Amanda is an experienced musician and conductor who originally hails from Swan Hill in north-western Victoria. Amanda began her musical career in classical saxophone as part of a school concert band program and has since performed regularly on various woodwind instruments with both professional and community orchestras, concert bands, theatre companies, and jazz bands across South Australia and Victoria.

Vern has directed numerous shows for BTC and was Director for BTC’s 200th production, the courtroom drama Beyond Reasonable Doubt which was performed in the BTC Shed in March, to much acclaim. In 2017 as a part of a small drama subcommittee, Vern assisted in the creation of the BTC TENX10 play initiative which has been staged every year since, totalling 8 seasons so far (there were two TENX10 seasons in 2019). TENX10 is a program of ten original 10-minute plays by local and international writers. This format encourages aspiring actors and directors to develop and practise their skills. As well as being Production Manager for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Vern is the newly appointed President of Bendigo Theate Company for the 2022 year. He is the Set Construction Manager for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and has enjoyed the challenge of assisting with the creation of the huge and innovative sets for this production. He is particularly grateful to Samantha Lempio-Franklin for her amazing set designs and has enjoyed the challenge of converting these ideas into actual set pieces.

Emily’s life-long love of theatre and acting began as a very shy and dyslexic 10-yearold speech and drama student. Her mother was at her wits’ end and thought acting lessons might help to develop Emily’s confidence. Little did she know those lessons would quickly develop into a long-term pursuit culminating in a Master of Arts (Theatre and Performance (Directing)) through UNE. Emily started her musical education at the age of four with the violin, eventually expanding her musical accomplishments to include the viola, cello, orchestral conducting and voice. She now holds undergraduate university degrees in both music pedagogy (USQ) and music performance (UNE). Over the last 25 years Emily has performed on stage and in the pit in countless plays, musicals and orchestras, with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory being the 15th production she has had the pleasure to direct, and her first time directing for Bendigo Theatre Company. Enjoy the show!

Amanda completed a Bachelor of Music at the Elder Conservatorium in Adelaide before spending the next 10 years in various roles including chamber musician, instrumental tutor at various private schools, and several years in the Australian Army Band. She then completed a Graduate Diploma in Education and moved to Shepparton where she is currently a music and performing arts teacher at the Greater Shepparton Secondary College and performs regularly with the Shepparton Theatre Arts Group. Amanda has played in many shows such as The Drowsy Chaperone, Oliver, The Wizard of Oz, Little Shop of Horrors, Legally Blonde, The Wedding Singer, The Sound of Music and more recently has been Musical Director for productions of Fame, Spamalot, 13 The Musical, and others. Between performances Amanda enjoys spending time camping and travelling with her husband and two young children.

LISA KEARIN Choreographer

KERRY LORENZ Vocal Director

THOMAS MOORE Assistant Director

Miss Lisa began choreographing shows in 1994, her first 2 at the Nightspot Makaty in Hirosaki Japan (where she had been performing nightly in a cabaret show). Returning to Australia she became CT Productions resident choreographer, which lasted nearly 20 years. Shows included Gentlmen Only, The Boyfriend, Forum (twice), Chicago (nominated for a Victorian Theatre Guild Award), Anything Goes, The Mikado (twice), Call Me Madam, Iolanthe, HMS Pinafore, Guys and Dolls (twice), The King and I, Chess, and Jesus Christ Superstar. For BTC Lisa has choreographed The Wizard Of Oz, Beauty and the Beast, and Wicked (Commendation from the Victorian Theatre Guild). She also directed shows including All Shook Up, Cinderella and Hairspray.

Kerry started performing at the age of 4 alongside her father Ferdie Lorenz at The Capital Theatre here in Bendigo many years ago, and hasn’t stopped since.

Thomas has been involved in theatre since his first show with the Bendigo Theatre Company in 2005, although he has been immersed in the world of performance and music since birth. In that time he has performed, directed, managed productions, been involved in back stage and even sound technician work. By far the highlight of his theatre career so far has been Directing Willy Russell's Blood Brothers for Tribe Youth Theatre in 2019; directing in particular is a passion for Thomas. He is a four-time director for the Bendigo Theatre Company's TENX10 short play series and was assistant director for Terry Pratchett's Wyrd Sisters with Tribe Youth Theatre in 2018, and Stephen Sondheim's Assassins with Castlemaine's 3's a Crowd Productions.

Lisa began performing aged 6 when she filmed her first TV commercial. Her career includes The Australian Opera’s Lakme, The Snow White Ballet, pantomimes, TV shows, movies, the Papal Tour, theatre restaurants, professional cheerleader, Plinges Music Hall, floor shows and cabarets. Local shows include Cats (Mungojerry), Leader Of The Pack (waitress), and Annie (Mrs Pugh). She also taught at CV Dance Studio for nearly 30 years, where she still teaches junior ballet. Lisa is thrilled to be finishing off her choreographic career with her amazing co-choreographer, daughter Kaddison, and also working with her son Ky. She has adored her Oompa children and working with some very talented old and new friends in Charlie. Thank you BTC xxx

Kerry began working professionally in her teens with Plinges Music Hall, that led on to Tikki & John’s Cabaret followed by Dracula’s Cabaret. These required a vast range of performance skills but she always favoured the singing and comedy aspects. Kerry then went on to sail the high seas, cruising through the South Pacific working once again as a Cabaret Artist in the evening and Assistant Cruise Director by day. Kerry returned to her home town of Bendigo many years ago to establish a Musical Theatre School and to teach singing. She studied singing at The Melba Conservatorium of Music for many years and attained Associate Teaching AMEB, and Music Theory Honours AMEB. Kerry was vocal Director for Tribe Youth Theatre’s sold out run of Grease in 2018. “It is always a great pleasure to work with the Bendigo Theatre Company, and I thoroughly enjoy the process of watching young talent grow from their audition to their opening night. It is inspiring and heartwarming”.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has been the largest and most complex project Thomas has been involved with to date, and he has relished the many varied and complicated challenges this has included. He is very proud of this cast and team, and all the incredible work they've put into this production. When not working on shows, Thomas runs a youth group two nights a week through the City of Bendigo/Yo Bendigo, playing Tabletop Roleplaying Games, another passion quite similar to acting in many ways.

Suddenly before us stands Willy Wonka, the world-renowned candy maker and inventor of the Everlasting Gobstopper (The Candy Man) - a genius who believes he is a forgotten man. Wonka transforms himself into the world-weary owner of a candy shop who makes the acquaintance of young Charlie Bucket, who idolizes Willy Wonka. When the shop owner tells Charlie that Wonka is about to make a comeback, the boy is thrilled but exasperated that the shop owner does not seem to know just who Willy Wonka is (Willy Wonka! Willy Wonka!). Charlie comes from a poor, fatherless family that scrounges for food, and he lives for his birthday each year when he receives as a gift a single Willy Wonka Chocolate Bar. The shop owner tells him that Willy Wonka is going to open the mysteries of his chocolate factory - but only to the five lucky possessors of a golden ticket to be found in a Wonka Bar. Back home, Charlie learns that times are so hard for his family that he will not get his birthday Wonka Bar this year - so no chance at the golden ticket. Of the four eccentric grandparents who live in the house - in fact, in the same bed - Grandpa Joe is Charlie’s kindred spirit (Charlie, You & I), urging him on. Charlie decides to write a letter to Willy Wonka (A Letter from Charlie Bucket), in which he expresses his wonder and admiration (as well as some ideas) for the candy maker. The news break that the first winner of a golden ticket is a food-loving German boy (More of Him to Love), adored by his mother and named Augustus Gloop. The second (When Veruca Says) is Veruca Salt, the spoiled-rotten daughter of a Russian oligarch. The winner of the third ticket (The Queen of Pop) is Violet Beauregarde, whose publicity hound of a father is turning her pursuit of a world record for chewing gum into a media event. The fourth ticket (What Could Possibly Go Wrong?) goes to Mike Teavee, a brat who is mesmerized by social

media, to the delight of his mother. Charlie appears to be out of luck, leaving his mother and grandparents wistful for what she is unable to provide (If Your Father Were Here), when fate intervenes. He finds some money on the ground and buys a Wonka bar from Mrs. Green’s cart and discovers a golden ticket, making him the fifth winner. Charlie and his whole family celebrate the news (I’ve Got a Golden Ticket/ Grandpa Joe) that he is headed to Willy Wonka’s Chocolate Factory, where Grandpa Joe will join him. At long last, Willy Wonka welcomes the winners into his factory, teasing them about what lies ahead for them (It Must Be Believed to Be Seen). Inside the factory, Wonka introduces the winners to the wonders they are about to encounter - and some things they need to remember (Strike That, Reverse It). Charlie and Grandpa Joe are in awe of Wonka and what the magical experience has to offer (Pure Imagination/Grandpa Joe (Reprise)), while the other children are greedy and impatient. One by one, the ticket holders become victims of their own appetites. Augustus Gloop’s insatiable hunger for the chocolate waterfall makes him the first victim (The Oompa Loompa Song/Auf Wiedersehen Augustus Gloop), his fate determined by the mysterious Oompa Loompas who do Wonka’s bidding. Wonka explains to his guests how he freed the Oompa Loompas and they became his allies (When Willy Met Oompa). His warnings fall on deaf ears. Violet is then the next golden ticket holder to vanish followed by Veruca (Veruca’s Nutcracker Sweet), and finally Mike Teavee (Vidiots). Ultimately, there is only Charlie, in whom Willy Wonka sees an heir to his magical mission. He welcomes Charlie into a magical glass elevator that takes them up, up, up, so the boy can see everything that will be his (The View from Here) - a happy home and limitless future, thanks to the Candy Man.

LIAM DUIVENVOORDEN Willy Wonka Liam is delighted to be playing the role of Willy Wonka in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. He began his journey in theatre at the age of 10, at Bendigo’s Helen O’Grady Drama Academy (now Props Theatre). Later on, in high school, Liam continued his theatrical pursuits by joining the Academy of Creative Arts at Bendigo South East College. In 2019 he took up dancing lessons with Bendigo Ballet and, later that same year, joined the cast of BSE’s Me and My Girl (Herbert Parchester). Liam’s first foray into community theatre was in 2020 when he was cast in Tribe Youth Theatre’s Cats (George/Rumpus Cat). Unfortunately, due to a certain pandemic, he wasn’t able to perform in this production until January of 2022. Meanwhile, in 2021, Liam was invited to join the cast of BTC’s We Will Rock You (Ensemble), he also performed in Nexus Youth Theatre’s All Together Now in 2021 (Ensemble). Currently in his final year of VCE, Liam finds working on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to be a rewarding challenge. He loves bringing the character of Willy Wonka to life, adding his own flair to an already incredibly flamboyant character. He hopes you enjoy this journey through a world of pure imagination!

ELLI CALDER

CHRISTOPHER EMOND

Charlie Bucket

Grandpa Joe

Elli started her acting journey at the tender age of 5 as one of the twins in a junior production in Peter Pan with Bean Shed Productions in Central West NSW. At 3 Elli embarked on her first forays into music and dance, blossoming over the last nine years into a love of Cello, Piano, Singing, and a dedicated study of Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Contemporary, Classical, and Character Ballet.

When Chris was four years old, his parents owned the general store on Carpenter Street. They’ve always maintained they had to sell the business due to their children eating all the lollies in the front counter window. Thus began his training for this production.

Beginning acting lessons at the Old Church on the Hill Drama Club in 2017, Elli has had many opportunities to explore and develop her acting skills. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is the first production she has participated in with Bendigo Theatre Company, and her first foray into musical theatre.

Chris has worked professionally with ‘The Flying Bookworm Theatre Company’ and ‘The Association of Cultural and Linguistic Education ACLE’ where he lived and worked in Italy performing English language shows for Italian schools. He appeared as a member of the ensemble for NED – A New Australian Musical, which premiered here at the Ulumbarra Theatre.

Elli has performed in many theatre productions with On the Hill Theatre and Uncertain Curtain including as Wendy in Peter Pan, Alice in Alice in Wonderland, Violet Beauregarde in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, What’s his Name (Peter) in Bubble Bubble, Peasblossom in A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ and as Mrs Beaver in The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe, among others.

Chris’s association with Bendigo Theatre Company spans nearly three decades. In that time, he has played the Baker in Into the Woods, Billy Flynn in Chicago, Wilber Turnblad in Hairspray, Stanley Stubbers in One Man, Two Guvnors, Frederick Fellowes in Noises Off, Doody in Grease, Hero in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Fagin in Oliver, Seymour in Little Shop of Horrors, and many more! He directed BTC’s 2005 production The Man of La Mancha.

Elli is looking forward to her next project with the upcoming production of Puffs: Or Seven Increasingly Eventful Years at a Certain School of Magic and Magic with BTC’s Tribe Youth Theatre in September and hopes to make performing in musicals a long-term pursuit.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory marks Chris’s return to the stage after a few years away exploring being a dad. He has enjoyed playing Grandpa Joe and looks forward to sharing this experience with you.

JACK BARBER Augustus Gloop

GEMMA CHISHOLM Veruca Salt

Jack is excited to be making his Bendigo Theatre Company debut as “The Bavarian Beefcake” Augustus Gloop, the greedy, fat and dumb first Golden Ticket winner. However Jack is no stranger to the stage. Previously Jack has played the Genie in Girton Grammar’s production of Aladdin Jr (2015). He has brought to life the roles of Shrek in Shrek Jr (2016), Mufasa in The Lion King Jr (2017), Sir John Middleton in Sense and Sensibility (2019), Amos Heart in Chicago (2019) and Bill Austin in Mamma Mia! (2021) at Geelong Grammar School, where he also held the position of Drama Captain in year 12 last year.

Bendigo Theatre Company’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will be Gemma’s first major show. She is incredibly excited to be playing her first lead role, Veruca Salt. Previous shows include Cats with Tribe Youth Theatre (2022), Bendigo Kids Christmas Concert with BTC (2020 & 2019), Sleeping Beauty Pantomime (2019) and Beauty and the Beast Pantomime with BTC (2018).

Jack has also starred in and co-written/ directed a few short films including Walking Disaster: the Jack and Archie Story (2020) which is posted on his YouTube channel. For Jack, participating in BTCs Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has been an opportunity to create meaningful connections within the Bendigo community whilst having a taste of performing outside of school. Jack has loved bringing the character of Augustus Gloop to life and hopes the audience has as much fun witnessing Augustus’s buffoonery as he does performing it.

Beginning dance classes at the age of 5, she has taken classes, workshops, competed at statewide competitions and performed at a variety of shows. Gemma is looking forward to trying something new, combining both her dance and theatre worlds for Veruca; she is thrilled to be finally performing on the Ulumburra stage and bringing her character to life. Gemma embraced the challenge to get out of her comfort zone when experimenting with Veruca, including learning how to do a Russian accent, and relearning how to dance on pointe after two years. Gemma is thrilled for the audience to see this amazing show, and she hopes you enjoy!

ELISHA FIELD Violet Beauregarde

OLIVER SEXTON Mike Teavee

Elisha’s love of dance, singing and music and an early introduction to performing led to her first role in a BTC Pantomime in 2016. Since then, Elisha has gone on to perform in nine shows with Bendigo Theatre Company as well as performing in countless dance and singing eisteddfods.

Oliver, a Year 10 student at Catherine McAuley College, is a leader in their S.R.C., choir, stage and rock bands, and productions, performing most recently as Sir Lancelot in Spamalot. He first stepped onto the stage as Pinocchio in St. Joseph’s Shrek.

In 2015 Elisha was cast as Portly in The Australian Shakespeare Company’s Wind in the Willows at the Royal Botanic Gardens Melbourne were Elisha enjoyed performing to hundreds of people each performance. Elisha has also added film to her list of credits. Elisha was cast as the leading child actor in a short film about a little farm girl who lost her pet lamb due to drought. This highly emotive film went on to achieve success around international short film festivals and won numerous awards. Elisha is looking forward to completing her VCE this year where she is studying VCE singing performance and VCE Media amongst other subjects. Elisha is absolutely loving playing the role of Violet Beauregard and bringing her natural sass and big vocal belt to the stage. Elisha would like to thank her family for their unwavering support and love.

Oliver has studied musical theatre at Start Studio, playing roles such as Kristoff in Frozen and Ryan in High School Musical. In 2018 he joined Bendigo Theatre Company for Fiddler On The Roof, and has since participated in The Kids Christmas Concerts, and has volunteered as a lighting and sound engineer. Earlier this year, Oliver featured in Tribe Youth Theatre’s Cats as Gus. He is a member of Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre, where he has performed in Les Miserables, Oliver and All Together Now, and will soon thrill audiences as Lord Farquaad in their July production of Shrek. Oliver plays saxophone, keyboard and percussion, and attends vocal lessons with Kristie Woodward. His hobbies include music production, computing, coding and aviation. Oliver hopes to pursue a career in theatre, technology or aerospace. He would like to thank his family and friends for their continual support of his artistic pursuits. Oliver is thrilled to once again be on stage with his mum, Claire.

OVERTURE THE CANDY MAN

Willy Wonka, ensemble

WILLY WONKA! WILLY WONKA!

Charlie, ensemble

CHARLIE, YOU AND I

Grandpa Joe, Charlie

A LETTER FROM CHARLIE BUCKET

Charlie, Mrs Bucket, Grandparents

MORE OF HIM TO LOVE

Mrs Gloop, Augustus, ensemble

WHEN VERUCA SAYS THE QUEEN OF POP

Mr Salt, Veruca Mr Beauregarde, Violet, gum chomping divas, ensemble

WHAT COULD POSSIBLY GO WRONG

Mrs Teavee, Mike, ensemble

IF YOUR FATHER WERE HERE

Mrs Bucket, grandparents

I’VE GOT A GOLDEN TICKET

Charlie, Grandpa Joe, Mrs Bucket, Grandparents

IT MUST BE BELIEVED TO BE SEEN

Willy Wonka, ensemble

STRIKE THAT, REVERSE IT

Willy Wonka, golden ticket winners, parents

PURE IMAGINATION

Willy Wonka, golden ticket winners, parents

AUF WIEDERSEHEN AUGUSTUS GLOOP

Oompa Loompas, Willy Wonka, ensemble

WHEN WILLY MET OOMPA

Oompa Loompas, Willy Wonka, ensemble

VERUCA’S NUTCRACKER SWEET VIDIOTS THE VIEW FROM HERE

Oompa Loompas, ensemble Oompa Loompas, Willy Wonka, Mrs Teavee, ensemble Willy Wonka, Charlie

KEYBOARD 1 Eliza McKenna KEYBOARD 2 Karin Van Poppel KEYBOARD 3 Catherine Moore VIOLIN 1 Marc Young & Olivia Smith VIOLIN 2 Josephine Colacino CELLO Cally Bartlett REED 1 Meg Martin Natalie Port and Cynthia Holsworth REED 2 Bec Beagley REED 3 Ashleigh Yeates REED 4 Mathew Chalmers TRUMPET Alex Dullard HORN Claire McLean TROMBONE Zena Colacino GUITAR Alexander Zegelin BASS GUITAR Cooper Bennett DRUMS Paul Hunt PERCUSSION Annette Conway

MADELYN KIDD

CHLOE LOVELL

Mrs Bucket

Mrs Gloop

Madelyn is thrilled to be making her Bendigo Theatre Company debut in her performance as Mrs. Bucket.

Chloe is delighted to return to the Ulumbarra stage for her second production with Bendigo Theatre Company. Last year she made her debut in the amazing production of We Will Rock You, and is so excited to grace the stage again as Mrs Gloop.

Her passion for the arts began at 9 years old, as a pirate in Peter Pan with Victory Christian College, and grew as she went on in high school to perform with Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre for 7 years, starting as Louisa Von Trapp in the Sound of Music (2011), and completing her journey as Understudy Christine Daae in The Phantom of The Opera (2017). While completing a Bachelor’s degree in Musical Theatre at the Australian Institute of Music (2018 – 2020), she transitioned to Alumni Coach and Understudy of Eponine in their production of Les Misérables (2019), and has since moved to Vocal Coach for their 2022 production of Shrek: The Musical. Outside of Nexus she also had the privilege of portraying Mrs. Potts in Wendy Samantha Productions’ Beauty and the Beast (2020 – 2021) at Montsalvat Castle. Her degree has opened opportunities to teach as well as perform, and she worked with DTM Education between March 2021 and June 2022, after which she made the transition into running her own private business as a Piano and Singing Teacher.

No stranger to the stage, Chloe is an experienced performer, having featured in Victory Christian College’s The Little Mermaid Jr. as Ursula and Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre’s The Wizard of Oz, Annie, Music Man, Pirates of Penzance as Ruth, Phantom of the Opera as Firmin, and most notably as Fantine in their 2019 production of Les Misérables. Theatre has always been a big part of Chloe’s life, ever since she was little, she has found a way to be involved. She started working behind the scenes before she could finally make her exciting debut in The Wizard of Oz. Since then, Chloe has become the head of the marketing and program design team for Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre and is really enjoying helping out with the amazing production of Shrek the Musical this year! Chloe hopes you enjoy this wonderful show as you are transported into a “world of pure imagination!”

KY KEARIN

EMMA KELLY

LAURA-JANE PAYNE

Mr Salt

Mr Beauregarde

Mrs Teavee

Being born into a family that runs a dance studio, Ky has been involved in the arts throughout Victoria from a very early age.

After a 4 year hiatus from theatre, Emma is new to Bendigo and it’s theatre scene. Her debut performance with BTC was as a gothic vampire in their recent season of TENX10 (March/April 2022). Swaggering socialite Eugene Beauregard is quite the juxtaposition, but she has accepted this challenge with wholehearted enthusiasm!

Laura’s love of performing saw her take to the stage at an early age. Since the age of five, she has studied dancing and singing as well as acting with the National Institute of Dramatic Art.

He started a modelling career with Dezigner Kids (2003-2004), followed by a run with K-mart as well as a viral advertisement campaign for Dairy Australia (2007). After this, Ky focused on his studying and dance career, earning accolades at various Victorian Eisteddfods. This led to him performing in the parade at Hong Kong Disneyland (2009), and at Disney-World Florida (2012). Ky landed his first (of many) roles with Bendigo Theatre Company, in the production of Annie (2010), as Wacky the Dummy. He went on to find a further love for acting as he reached his senior years of high school at Girton Grammar. In 2018 he began formal training at the Federation University Arts Academy, studying a Bachelor of Acting for Stage and Screen, where he was taught and directed by Bell Shakespeare alum Ross Hall in Brontë (2019), and took on the role of Claudius in his final year of university in Hamlet (2020). Ky returned to BTC after completing his university degree last year in We Will Rock You, and his current role as Mr Salt is his first lead with the company.

Prior to her move to Bendigo, Emma was a member of the Swan Hill Theatre Group, and took on roles in cast and crew in a number of shows from the age of 13. Memorable moments include playing saxophone in the band for Chicago (2013), a variety of comedic minor roles in Monty Python’s Spamalot (2017), Princess Fiona in Shrek the Musical Jr. (2017), and co-directing Aristocats Kids in 2017 and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in 2018. A large-scale production such as BTC’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is an exciting new first in her theatre journey, and has absolutely sucked her in to go forth and continue to learn and collaborate creatively with other makers and shakers in the region! In the future, Emma looks forward to many more years of high quality amateur theatremaking in Bendigo and beyond.

Her love of singing and desire to help people led her to study Speech Pathology. Laura has been working as a Speech Pathologist for over six years. In this role, she helps people of all ages who struggle with their articulation, language, and social communication skills. She has a special interest in working with clients who require voice therapy and training. As a versatile actor, Laura has brought many roles to life: Belle in Beauty and The Beast (2010), Sonia in Godspell (2012), Cinderella in Cinderella (2013), Cindy-Watkins in Hairspray (2013), Annie in Chicago (2014), Poppy Norton-Taylor in Noises Off (2015), Morticia Addams in The Addams Family (2016), Linelle in The Boy from Oz (2016), Pilar in Legally Blonde (2017), and the GP in Smoke and Mirrors (2019). Laura is thrilled to have been cast as Mrs Teavee in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,which marks her tenth show with Bendigo Theatre Company. Laura is extremely grateful for the opportunity to work with such a talented and diverse cast/crew and to be back on stage in such a spectacular and heart-warming show.

MICHELLE Di CAMILLO Grandma Josephine

STANIA TRESIZE Grandma Georgina

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is Michelle's second musical with BTC after previously playing Grandma Tzeitl in Fiddler on the Roof.

Stania is passionate about her volunteer work at BTC. If you went looking for her, you would find her trying costumes on cast, locating props, working front of house or backstage, on stage, or in the kitchen. You name it, she has done it all. But her favourite role is meeting and greeting all her theatre family both young and old, calling them by name when they walk through the doors of “The Shed “ - encouraging them to follow their dreams, and knowing that if they need any help that they feel comfortable to ask.

Michelle has also worked with The Mount Players in Macedon and Synchronicity Bendigo where she has been involved in many shows both on stage and off. Her favourite roles have included Suzie in Wait Until Dark, Mary in Caught in the Net and Geraldine in the Vicar of Dibley. Outside of theatre Michelle is a busy mum of two and the Performing Arts Teacher at Strathfieldsaye Primary School.

Stania believes we must continue to work together as a united group, nurture and support each other and help grow the unique image of BTC as a dynamic, creative place. She believes in the united spirit in all of us. “I achieve because we achieve and we achieve because we meet the challenges together.”

LLOYD DODSWORTH Grandpa George (Willy Wonka understudy) After making his auspicious stage debut at the age of 2 years old, Lloyd Dodsworth turned the stage into his playground, regularly swapping out performances at festivals in a family band with daring feats of middling high school community theatre. Most recently seen finding his Southern twang in the Australian premiere of Bright Star, he now relishes the opportunity with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to volunteer for as many roles as he can convince people to allow, slinking around as the loquacious understudy for Willy Wonka and then tearing up the sheets as the bedridden, nihilistic Grandpa George.

ELAINA BELL Cherry Sundae

MAX BEEVER Jerry Jubilee

CLAIRE SEXTON Mrs Green

Elaina has been acting for as long as they can remember, and advocating for equality for even longer. Their passion for both has been the driving force behind their work from the beginning.

Max returns to the stage after a three year hiatus and is overjoyed to be a part of another BTC production!

Claire has trained in and taught dance since the age of 4. She embraced roles with EMTC including Tzeitel in Fiddler On The Roof, the Wicked Witch in The Wizard Of Oz, and director, choreographer and musical director.

Their previous roles include Peyton in Literary Limbo and Puck in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. As someone who identifies as autistic and non-binary, being inclusive and considerate has always been Elaina's first priority and they have thoroughly enjoyed creating art and forming new friendships throughout the process of bringing this fantastic show to life. Elaina would like to thank those who have appreciated and accepted them.

Max started taking part in productions at age four and continued, every year, throughout his school years culminating in Matilda (2019). Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is Max’s second musical with BTC, his first was The Addams Family (2016) where he played Pugsley. Since then he has taken part in several BTC pantomimes, and Tribe Youth Theatre’s inaugural musical Barnum (2017), and its follow up, Grease (2018). Max has enjoyed meeting and working with new people whilst taking part in this show. He sincerely hopes you enjoy one of his all time favourite stories… Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!

Moving to STAG, Claire’s stage credits included performer and production team. Her first BTC appearance was as Choreographer for Annie (2010). Performances have included Prudy in Hairspray (2013) and Madame Morrible in Wicked (2019), for which she received a nomination from the Music Theatre Guild of Victoria. Claire has been performing, Choreographing and Directing with BTC for 12 years, and has been involved in TENX10, Tribe Youth Theatre’s Barnum and several Bendigo Kids Christmas Concerts. Highlights include Les Miserablés, where she met her husband Dan, and choreographing We Will Rock You (2021).

KADDISON KEARIN

LUCY KITCHING

LUCY MAPLE-WORLEY

Dance Captain and Co-Choreographer

Lucy’s passion for theatre began at the young age of four after taking her first acting class. Since then her love of all things performing arts has flourished.

Lucy is a year 11 student at Bendigo Senior Secondary College. She has been dancing for 11 years and is very passionate about it.

Kaddi has been dancing for 24 years, 10 of which include choreography. Her achievements in choreography include Music Theatre Guild of Victoria nominations. Kaddi has trained with renowned choreographers and spent time in NYC, being mentored by industry professionals. Since 2016 Kaddi has choreographed for Girton Grammar, including Strictly Ballroom (2022). She also choreographs for Bendigo South East’s ACA, and Ivanhoe Grammar. Kaddi has performed in musicals since a young age. Her roles have included Amber in Hairspray and Dance Captain in Wicked. She has loved working with her mum and brother and looks forward to furthering a career in choreography.

She has performed in several shows including Tribe Youth Theatre’s Blood Brothers, BTC’s Kids Christmas Concert and TENX10, as well as performing in countless school productions. Lucy has enjoyed stretching and improving her skills as a dancer and is excited to be returning to the stage in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

She started doing ballet when she was 4 then moved into all other styles in 2019. This is her first show with Bendigo Theatre Company and she is so excited about it. She has done several industry workshops with the Australian Ballet and Sydney Dance Company and has performed in several showcases with the Academy of Creative Arts. She loves being on stage and being able to perform and showcase her talent for everyone. Enjoy!

AYMEE ROBINSON

ELLA RUSSELL

JORDAN THOMPSON

Aymee is a 16 year-old dancer at LM Dance and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is her first major musical with BTC. Previous shows include Sleeping Beauty and Little Red Riding Hood (BTC pantomimes) and Rock of Ages (Weeroona College Bendigo).

Ella started dancing at the age of 6 at CV Dance Studio and singing lessons when she was 11, this is where her love of performing began.

Jordan is 16 years old and attends Bendigo Senior Secondary College. She is currently training with BCTalents and the Academy Of Creative Arts.

Ella performed with Tribe Youth Theatre in Cats and loved it so much she auditioned for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. She loves theatre as there is no better feeling than performing on stage! Ella has appeared in other performances - the Bendigo Christmas Concert, Carols by Candlelight and played Jemima in her school production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Jordan has been dancing for 14 years in all styles. Jordan has undertaken several industry workshops with Australian Ballet, Sydney Dance Company, Lion Heart Dance Company and many others. She was recently Macavity and Exotica in Tribe Youth Theatre’s performance of Cats.

After recently being involved in Tribe Youth Theatre’s production of Cats, she couldn’t wait to be back on the stage again. This experience has taught her so much and she feels she has grown immensely as a performer. Aymee would like to thank everyone who made this show possible, and she hopes you love it as much as she does.

She has made many new friends and can’t wait for you to see this amazing show.

Jordan has enjoyed every rehearsal for this production and has learnt so much throughout this experience, and has met so many friends along the way. She can not wait to perform for you all. Enjoy the show!

KAITLYN ALLAN

EMILY BIBBY

ELIJAH CLARKE

(Cherry understudy)

(Mrs Gloop & Mrs Teavee understudy)

(Grandpa Joe & Mr Salt understudy)

This is Emily’s second show with BTC. She is excited to be back on the stage after debuting as Grandma in 2020’s Little Red Riding Hood - the pantomime.

Elijah’s previous community theatre experience has been as an Oompa Loompa in Theatre 8’s production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in 2006.

Emily has a Bachelor of Music (Honours in Vocal Performance) from The University of Melbourne, and twenty years of performance experience and teaching across a wide range of music genres, including as Music Director and Vocal Coach for Nexus BYT.

Elijah's art background has focused on the visual arts, particularly photography.

Kaitlyn is in Year 11 at BSSC. SThey have been involved in Rock of Ages and Grease with Weeroona College Bendigo, and this led to auditioning for Bendigo Theatre Company’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Kaitlyn has had such a wonderful time forming friendships and performing again. Kaitlyn is also taking part of Nexus Bendigo Youth theatre’s Shrek the Musical. They enjoy doing makeup, watching stage productions and spending time with friends. Kaitlyn is excited for this performance to come alive on stage and hopes the audience really enjoys the show!

AVA COSSENS (Veruca understudy) Ava is so grateful for this amazing experience. Ava does many dance classes as well as singing and has previously been in Tribe Youth Theatre’s production of Cats and Girton Grammar’s productions of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe and The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui. Ava has been amazed at the speed with which this production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has come together without the disruption of a pandemic. Especially considering how Cats took 2 years to finalise due to the impact of the pandemic. She has loved the wonderful energy and commitment of all involved. Ava is so happy she could be involved in this incredible show. Enjoy!

Emily was nominated for a Victorian Theatre Guild Award for Johanna in Geelong Lyric’s Sweeney Todd, and received a VTGA commendation for Nancy in Oliver! with Shepparton Theatre Arts Guild.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has broadened Elijah’s performative scope, experimenting with singing, dancing and acting. Elijah has enjoyed the challenge of a tight rehearsal schedule and a large cast.

ZOE DI CAMILLO

McKENZIE DUNNE

Zoe has been acting ever since she was 5 years old when she was first in The Sound of Music playing Gretl and has loved it ever since. After The Sound of Music she has been in productions like The Big Men Fly, The Hound of the Baskervilles, Pride and Prejudice, Fiddler on the Roof and Cats.

McKenzie has recently moved to Bendigo for her university studies.

She has always enjoyed the late nights rehearsing and meeting so many new people. She loves to perform because she gets to have fun with all of her friends and she gets to enjoy everything she is in.

She was involved in her local musical society in Mildura, performing in Pantomimes when she was young, and recently had a supporting lead role in Mamma Mia! in February 2022. McKenzie is continuing her love of theatre at BTC and looks forward to performing in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and many more productions in the future.

Zoe hopes you enjoy Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!

LAURA FREEMAN

ELLA HONEY

(Mrs Bucket understudy)

Ella is 14 years old and currently homeschooled. Her productions include Oliver (2020-2021), All Together Now (2021) and Shrek (2022) with Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre, Cats (2022) with Tribe Youth Theatre, and this year’s Charlie and The Chocolate Factory.

Laura’s first appearance on stage was in the ensemble for BTC’s Annie as an eight year old. In the years that followed she performed in shows including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, The King and I, Godspell, Call Me Madam and many others. After a long break from theatre, Laura made a comeback to the stage in BTC’s Wicked in 2019 and she has definitely caught the performing bug again and is so excited to be on stage in this wonderful production!

She enjoys singing (classical and musical theatre), acting, dancing, art, and writing. In this production of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory Ella has enjoyed meeting new people and gaining more experience in theatre. Roald Dahl's story Charlie and the Chocolate factory has always been a favourite of Ella's and she hopes you enjoy this musical retelling!

LILY JOHNS-HAYDEN

ETHAN LARKINS

TOMMY MARCHANT

(Violet understudy)

(Mr Beauregarde understudy)

(Augustus understudy)

Lily is 18 years old and has always loved to sing and perform. Since 2017 she has performed in around 10 productions with BTC and Tribe, and was lucky enough to play Bombalurina in Tribe’s Cats prior to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Ethan grew up as a 'theatre brat' (the child of a professional actor). By age 7 he had toured Australia with the 2002 cast of Mamma Mia where his favourite pastime was scaring his mum by hanging out in the scaffold during performance - (Shhh).

Lily has loved working with everyone and is so proud of the work ethic displayed by all the talented cast and crew who have helped put this show together and hopes you love watching it as much as she loves performing in it!

Whilst never actually performing himself, he fell in love with the community and the eclectic, eccentric bunch of individuals that make up the performing arts sector. Ethan is happy to be once again joining them for BTC's Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Tommy is 14 and in year 9 at Girton Grammar. Theatre is Tommy’s first love, and he has appeared in numerous productions with BTC, Tribe Youth Theatre, Nexus BYT and Girton Grammar. Tommy says, ‘Bendigo is a great city for kids like me, there is plenty going on to get involved in to learn and create.’

As well as appearing in many theatre productions (six this year!), Tommy has appeared in the ARIA nominated music video Don’t sleep by Tones & I, and award-winning short film, Cactus and Mime.

ALICE McKELLAR

JILL McPARTLANE

THOMAS PURCELL

Alice is 15 years old and in year 10 at Bendigo South East College. She has been performing In theatre since she was 10. Alice has performed in BSE's Me and My Girl, Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre’s Oliver, and Tribe Youth Theatre’s Cats. After Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Alice will be performing in Nexus's production of Shrek.

(Mrs Green understudy)

(Jerry understudy)

With over 35 years experience in musical theatre, music education, singing, dancing and live performance, Jill has performed on stage in West Side Story (Rosalie), Grease (Jan), Music Man (ensemble) and Pirates of Penzance. She toured in a children’s theatre company as Snow White before moving to Australia to run several franchises of children’s music education. Off stage, Jill is a progressive house vocalist, collaborating with producers across the globe. Jill has released vinyl and CDs with artists: Brahma, Sentient Audio Collective and Jacob Todd. Being back on stage with Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is exhilarating and memorable.

This is Thomas’ first show with Bendigo Theatre Company. He has also performed in Bendigo South East’s production of Me and My Girl. Thomas has found this to be a once in a lifetime experience as he has enjoyed working with such a variety of different people of different ages.

STEPHANIE QUINN

ASHLEE TAYLOR

ERIN TINKER

Stephanie’s has performed with Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre including Beauty and the Beast (2010), The Sound of Music (2011) and The Wizard of Oz (2012). In addition, Steph has performed in end of year concerts with CV Dance Studio (2015 – 2020) and has sung with the AF Singers in the Bendigo Comps and Rotary Carols. Her roles with Bendigo Theatre Company include ensemble in Fiddler On The Roof (2018) and the Kids Christmas Concert (2019).

Ashlee is ecstatic to bring to Ulumburra’s enormous stage this beloved Roald Dahl classic. Ashlee has had fun creating the silly and fun caricatures knitted within the ensemble. This is her third appearance with Bendigo Theatre Company, having previously performed in Fiddler on the Roof (2018) and We Will Rock You (2021).

Erin’s love of performing started with Helen Grady drama classes. When Tribe Youth Theatre began she jumped at the chance to audition for Barnum because of her love of singing. Since then Erin has played Brigitta in Nexus' The Sound of Music, and in Tribe's Grease, Blood Brothers and school productions at CMC and Girton.

For Nexus Bendigo Youth Theatre, Ashlee was in The Music Man (2014) and Madame Giry in Phantom of the Opera (2017). Her high school credits include Beauty and the Beast (2014), The Little Mermaid (2014) and Mrs Paroo in The Music Man (2016).

At the start of this year, Erin played Rumpleteazer in Tribe Youth Theatre’s Cats and was so excited to be back in the theatre. She is excited to be in the ensemble and to be coordinating wigs and props for this wonderful production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

Alice has most loved getting to know new people and watching the magic unfold in the creation of this magnificent show. She hopes that you enjoy Charlie and the Chocolate Factory!

Being in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has made Stephanie feel more confident about achieving her future goal as a Broadway actress. In her casual time, Stephanie enjoys drawing, watching Disney movies and playing Pokemon Go.

This has been challenging as well as fun for Thomas as it has been such a new experience. Learning the different aspects of musical theatre has been amazing. Thomas is keen to explore more options regarding theatre once he has completed Year 12.

IVY BELL

AMARLIA BOURKE

ABI CALDER

WILLIAM CALDER

Ivy is excited as this is her first production. Ivy has been dancing on stage learning all genres of dance, since 2016 at CV Dance Studio, and recently, singing with Kristie Woodward. She has competed in many dance competitions over the years and has received many accolades for her hard work.

Amarlia has enjoyed working with the cast and crew of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, learning new dances, improving her acting skills, making new friends, and having a blast.

Abi’s love of performance began at an early age with her first dance concert at two years old and her first theatre performance a year later as a fairy in Peter Pan.

(Mike understudy)

Amarlia has danced for over 10 years doing tap, jazz and ballet, competing at dance competitions where she loves to perform up on stage and enjoys the thrill of it all.

Abi loves acting and has been a student at the Old Church on the Hill Drama Club for the last 6 years, whilst also taking dance lessons at Sharon Saunders, now Stage 29, and CV dance studios in the disciplines of jazz, tap, contemporary and classical ballet.

Ivy enjoys being on stage performing, making new friends and has a passion for dancing, singing, and musical theatre. Ivy has thoroughly enjoyed working with Bendigo Theatre Company. Ivy would like to thank her teachers and especially her family for their dedication and support to her dance journey.

Earlier this year Amarlia performed in her first musical theatre production of Cats with Tribe Youth Theatre, playing Luna in the dance ensemble. She thoroughly enjoyed Cats and has carried over what she has learnt into her new role as an Oompa Loompa for this amazing production.

Will has studied acting for eight years. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is his first musical and fourteenth production. With a desire to pursue a career in the performing arts Will has undertaken weekly lessons at NIDA in Melbourne.

Abi loves all animals, particularly furry ones, and is incredibly excited to play Gerald the squirrel in Act 2 of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.

As a developing violinist Will has a strong musical background and has been expanding his musical endeavours with singing lessons. Also desiring to improve his stage presentation at the start of 2022 Will embarked on dance lessons at CV dance studio in jazz, contemporary and classical ballet, which has quickly developed into a new great love!

TARA COLLARD

MATILDA FAVOLORO

ALEX FOXLOW

TAHLIA GIFFARD

Tara is excited about her first theatre performance on stage at Ulumbarra Theatre.

Tilly has most recently been in Cats but unfortunately, due to COVID, she didn’t get to perform. Tilly has also performed with Sing Studio.

(Charlie understudy)

Tahlia’s previous theatre experience is playing the role of Mittens the kitten in Tribe Youth Theatre’s production of Cats. She has always loved performing and a highlight of her week is taking theatre classes with Props Theatre. Tahlia also enjoys singing, playing guitar, dancing and art.

With an interest in music, learning both guitar and piano, Tara has enjoyed the opportunity to explore acting, dance and singing through her involvement in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Tara has loved making new friends in the cast and seeing the show come together and feels really proud to be a part of this production.

What Tilly likes about Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is being part of the cast, learning new things, and having fun with other cast mates. Tilly has loved being part her second musical production and is already looking forward to the next one! Outside of Charlie and the Chocolate factory Tilly dances at CV Dance Studio and enjoys competing on her horse Sammy.

Alex is in year 9 at BSE where he has been in the choir since Year 7. He also started learning drama this year as he loves to perform. This is his first musical and is absolutely loving the experience and the people involved. Alex is currently studying Grade 5 piano and has also been part of the Bendigo Youth Choir for a few months. He loved being involved in the Carols by Candlelight last year. He also loves his animals, especially his 2 Dachshunds, Pretzel and Scooby.

She is overjoyed to have a part in this show and each rehearsal she enters with a smile. Tahlia finds each session is as exciting as the last as she continues to dance and have fun with her fellow Oompa Loompas and she’s looking forward to putting on an awesome show for you!

SKYE McPARTLANE

AVA RUDKINS

HARRY SCOTT

VICTORIA TOMKINS

Skye has been singing, dancing and performing since she was 3 years old. In her short 10 years, she has performed leading roles with Broadway Academy as Gomez in The Addams Family and Mouse in The Frog and Toad.

Ava is 12 and attends East Loddon P-12 college. Ava has always loved to sing and perform and she enjoyed her first acting role as ‘little Alice’ for her school performance Alice in Wonderland.

Harry began dancing at three years of age with CV Dance Studio. Harry has studied tap, jazz, hip hop and ballet, however his real passion is musical theatre. Harry is no stranger to the stage, yet this will be his debut experience in a full-length musical theatre production!

Victoria is incredibly excited to be joining Bendigo Theatre Company for the very first time!

She has also performed singing concerts for the RAW Arts Awards at the Capital Theatre, the Castlemaine Young Maker’s Market, Fun-key Music and performed with her brother for a local wedding. Skye loves being an Oompa Loompa for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and looks forward to performing again with Bendigo Theatre Company.

She currently sings with the Bendigo Youth Choir and is rehearsing for the Australian Opera performance The Barber of Seville as a part of the children’s chorus. Auditioning for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory has been exhilarating and will be Ava’s first BTC performance. Joining the cast has given Ava many new experiences and friendships with people sharing similar passions.

Harry likes being an Oompa Loompa with his friends and learning new dances. When Harry is not humming and singing he loves to ride moto trials on his farm, playing tennis and competing in athletics.

MIA UNDERWOOD

BELLA WALLACE

ABIGAIL WILLIAMS

Mia has always had an interest in Arts and performance. She has been a dancer at LM Dance and CV Dance; her favourite styles are hip hop and jazz. She has also undertaken singing lessons with Alex Frank Singers, which she thoroughly enjoyed.

Bella is 10 years old and has been singing since she was 6. She loves it! She has also been dancing for the past 3 years. These dance styles include Hip Hop and Jazz.

Abigail loves to dance and has been dancing (mostly jazz) since since was 4 years old. Last year she attended Props theatre which excited her passion for acting. This led to Abigail playing the lead role, Goldilocks, in her school play Porridge which she loved. Abigail is really enjoying being part of the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory team because it has allowed her to meet new people and have fun while learning new things.

Charlie and The Chocolate Factory has been a dream come true and a fantastic challenge. Mia enjoys the dancing and how it evolves at every rehearsal. Mia is also a fantastic visual artist; she loves to paint and draw.

Bella wanted to be a part of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to enjoy socialising and learning about every scene and how a production comes together. She has loved her experience and hopes to be in many more productions.

Her favourite animals are turtles because she loves the way they swim through the water. Abi has a 1 year old bunny named Fluffy.

She is a lifelong Roald Dahl fan, with Charlie and The Chocolate Factory being her favorite story. She is delighted to be a part of bringing the story to life as one of Wonka’s very important Oompa Loompas. She is enjoying honing her acting, dancing and singing skills, whilst making lots of new friends who love the theatre as much as she does.

Production Manager

Vern Wall

Director

Emily Calder

Musical Director

Amanda Eagle

Choreographer

Lisa Kearin

Vocal Director

Kerry Lorenz

Assistant Director

Thomas Moore

Co-Choreographer

Kaddison Kearin

Stage Manager

John Trainor

Assistant Stage Manager

Selina Trainor

Backstage Crew

Robin Gray, Beth Prestney, Carolyn Staszkiewicz, Caitlin Trainor, Georgia Wearne

Rehearsal Pianists

Emily Bibby, Allison Dullard, Eliza McKenna, Karin Van Poppel

Tribe Representative

Kristen Beever

Prompt

Barbara Billings

Costume Coordinator

Kylie Howe

Costume Team

Emily Bibby, Jenni Clohesy, Julie Drake, Maureen Fleiner, Joan Freeman, Laura Freeman, Grace Messier, Lauren Mitchell, Dale Rogers, Stania Tresize

Makeup Design

Kit Godfrey

Wig Coordinator

Erin Tinker

Lighting Design

Ian Scott - ISLX

Dome operators

Finn Cunningham, Alex Epworth, Sam Moloney

Sound Design

Greg Ginger Outlook Communications

Set Design

Samantha Lempio-Franklin

Set Coordinator

Vern Wall

Set Construction Crew

Greg Bowen, Colin Brown, Bob Caldwell, John Freeman, Peter Huggard, Samantha Lempio-Franklin, Keva Lloyd, Ernie Moore, Roger Ogilvie, Debbie Parsell, Rodney Pearce, Kate Tinker, Steve Tinker, Kyle Waddington, Len Wallace, Peter Warburton, Brian Yob

Set Painting

Cast, crew & their family members, and members of the committee

Properties Coordinator

Kate Tinker

Marketing Coordinator

Grant Finlay

Photography Coordinator

Jodie Field

Production Photographer

David Field Shooter Photos and Film

Program Design

Kristen Beever Central Design Studio

Special thanks

Gold Central Victoria, KLFM, Phoenix FM, Valentine’s Antiques, Variety Superstore, Carpet Court

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE President Vice President Secretary Treasurer

Vern Wall Keva Lloyd Jenni Clohesy Maureen Fleiner

GENERAL COMMITTEE Colin Brown, Conor Cunningham, Grant Finlay, Samantha Lempio-Franklin, Thomas Moore, Jeremiah Steen, Steve Tinker, Stania Tresize

PATRON

Cr. Rod Fyffe

LIFE MEMBERS Anne Ball, Mrs Ball (dec.), Colin Brown, Grace Cox, Gael Emond, Maureen Fleiner, Greg Harris, Patricia Lyon (dec.), Jack Paynting (dec.), Annie Smith, Ray Smith, John Trainor, Selina Trainor, Stania Tresize, Vern Wall, Abe Watson, Ken Wells, Madge Welsh (dec.)

YOUTH THEATRE

COMMITTEE Vern Wall (Chair), Kristen Beever, Kit Godfrey, Natalie Hercus, Kerry Turpie, Elizabeth Young

BTC’s 70th Birthday Celebration EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Bendigo Theatre Company (formerly Bendigo Operatic Society) is celebrating its 70th birthday with a special event on November 20, 2022. This will feature past and present performers. If you, or anyone you know is interested in performing in this event please contact Stania Tresize at stania54@gmail.com or message via Facebook. We will publish more details regarding the celebrations soon. Bendigo Theatre Company is looking forward to catching up with you all.

10 YEARS, 16 SHOWS.

Thank you Shooter Photos and Film for capturing so many memories for Bendigo Theatre Company.

2013

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2019

2020

2021

2022