The weekend of March 4th and 5th held sweet surprises for audiences that attended Madison Junior School’s production of Willy Wonka JR. A cast of over thirty 6th, 7th, and 8th graders sang the classic and familiar songs from the movie in addition to new songs written specifically the show.

Not only did the audience enjoy the show, but the actors enjoyed performing as well. We got to talk to eighth grader Hope Pratt, who played Mrs. Bucket in the show. “I really enjoyed the shows and hanging out with all the cast members,” says Hope. “I would easily do it again. It was really fun and the rehearsals were the perfect amount of time from the start.”

Rehearsals began in mid-December and continued through the week of the show. The cast worked tirelessly three days a week after school. “Also,” Hope says, “There was a lot of organization throughout the whole experience so one always knew what was happening.”

The organization was all thanks to the show’s two seasoned directors, Ms. Ariana Ciolino and Ms. Kiera Chiarino. “They were awesome, and they gave us great directions without hurting our feelings,” Hope says. The Madison Music and Arts was also a big help in making the show happen through constant funding and support in all aspects.

After the long rehearsal process, the show was finally complete with costumes and sound. “I really liked the fact that our costumes were given to us a good amount of time beforehand and that we had access to a lot of props. I also think the mics were very helpful and I’m glad that they had them for all the leads and that we had time to rehearse with them,” says Hope.

The talent that was seen in Willy Wonka shows that Madison High School will have some amazing new performers to grace the stage in the next few years. Willy Wonka JR was a great success for the Madison Junior School; congratulations to Hope and all other students who participated!