'Willy Wonka' to Be Presented by New Tampa Players

The gym was abuzz with activity Monday night: actors going over their lines and taking their places, musicians testing out the tunes.

The New Tampa Players community theatre group is getting ready to kick off its run of Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka” musical on Aug. 10.

Seth Travaglino plays the role of eccentric candy maker Willy Wonka, and he promises good things for audience members.

“If they want to laugh, smile and sing along to familiar tunes, then come see ‘Willy Wonka,’” he said.

Travaglino, a Land O' Lakes resident and music theater director at Blake High School, has been in several New Tampa Players productions. Playing the cane-carrying Wonka has been delightful.

“What I like about (Wonka) is the spontaneity I get to bring to the role,” he said. 

Producer Jenine Morehouse said the cast of more than 60 people has been rehearsing since May. Cast members range in age from 4 years old to “about 80” years old. 

“We did something unusual,” Morehouse said of the production. “For the five lead children, we did double casting.”

The New Tampa Players’ summer productions tend to have multi-generational appeal. Organizers and cast members say “Willy Wonka” is no different.

If you're not in the know, "Willy Wonka" is a stage adaptation of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory." It follows the story of a colorful candy maker and Charlie Bucket, a poor youth who secures a golden ticket in a Wonka bar.

For some, taking place in the production is a family affair.

Millie Myers is handling the production’s music with granddaughter Brooke Stinnett, while husband, Earl, plays Grandpa Joe. Daughter Vickie Stinnett is Mrs. Bucket and grandchildren Reagan and Eva are also in the production.

“It’s just a great show for the whole family,” Myers said.

SHOW INFORMATION

Where: The shows are held at the University Area Community Center, 14013 N. 22nd St. (Between Fletcher and Bearss).

When: Aug. 10 8 p.m.; Aug. 11 8 p.m.; Aug. 12 2 p.m.; Aug. 17 8 p.m.; Aug. 18 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.; Aug. 19 2 p.m.

How much: Ticket prices are $14 for adults and $12 for students and seniors.

Advance tickets: Tickets can be ordered in advance (with a discount rate) here: https://www.ezticketlive.com/checkout/event_view.asp?id=127