The ACS production of Willy Wonka JR. brought over a thousand people to our school’s stage for three shows on November 15 and 16. Congratulations to Director Genevieve Huff, Choreographer Amy Parker, Musical Director Liz Henigan and Technical Director Lee Martin for their hard work and dedication in creating a wonderful production.
The Cast included almost 60 ACS students starting in 3rd grade through 12th and another 7 students who served on Stage Crew behind the scenes. 7th graders Megan Connolly and Layla Aspenberg played the 2 main characters Chocolatier Willy Wonka and Golden Ticket Winner Charlie Bucket and did a phenomenal job. Sophomore Ethan Warren starred as Grandpa Joe and 8th grader Ava Aragon-Franks, Sophomore Kendall Bouchard and Freshman CJ Delacruz rounded out the funny grandparents. Seniors Joshua Kinch and Jadelyn Maurer played Charlie’s caring parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bucket.
The other ticket winners who were spoiled and bratty were played by 8th graders Chase Hagel, Rose Campbell, Sophomore Luci Huff and 4th grader Cayden Shull. These contestants were accompanied by their parents played by 7th graders Parker Maxwell and Hazel Donahue, 8th grader Gaebriel Hahn-Chaney and Sophomore Sophia Capito. The Candyman, 8th grader Joie Aspenberg, sang her iconic song “The Candyman Can” and Charlie’s friends were played by cousins 6th grader Brianna Shull and 3rd grader Andrew Paone.
Willy Wonka’s factory rooms were all amazing complete with overflowing Oompa-Loompas who sang their famous puzzle song filled with lessons for all to learn. The factory’s Fizzy Soda room included audience participation with bubble balloons in the audience, teeny bubble wands and the attendees also experienced the smell of chocolate while visiting different rooms.
Overall, Willy Wonka JR was an amazing showcase for the singing, acting and dancing talents of the ACS students while the audience had a lot of fun. In addition to honoring seniors Joshua Kinch and Jadelyn Maurer, the cast and crew also honored Senior Aine Dorsey, who designed most of the scenery and set pieces. The ACS drama program continues to grow and flourish….all to honor and glorify God.
Director Genevieve Huff shared that the cast worked tirelessly and bonded over the 10 weeks of rehearsals, becoming like one big, happy family united by a common goal: spreading God’s message through the musical. Lee Martin closed each show by tying the story of Willy Wonka to Biblical truths. Willy Wonka JR. is not just a story filled with candy and colorful characters; it reminds us to pursue what truly satisfies and to examine our sinful ways, allowing us to embrace the redemption Jesus brings into our lives.
A talented group of around 50 volunteers—including ACS teachers, staff, students, and parents—worked behind the scenes on set design, scenery, face painting, costumes, stage crew, and more. The student Costume Design Club, led by ACS Computer Teacher and Mock Trial Coach Rhapsody Hahn-Chaney, worked diligently on Thursdays during school. Additional volunteers dedicated time after school and in the evenings during the two weeks leading up to the show.
Special thanks to Jonathan Gonzalez for capturing the photos below.
