Momentum Collective Inc. is establishing itself as a force in the local children’s theater landscape with its production of Willy Wonka, JR. This is the company’s third children’s musical, done in partnership with the city of Alexandria’s Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities. The production features a robust cast of 37 Alexandria youth , and is made possible through funding from the Office of the Arts. Momentum’s proposition is that youth participate in the productions at no cost, and get exposed to very intensive, high-quality theater training.
At the helm of this production is Jason Ellis, the executive director for Momentum Collective Inc., who took on the roles of both director, and music director for Willy Wonka JR. He is supported by Rosslyn Burrs, who serves as the show’s choreographer. Both Jason and Rosslyn are veterans in the local theater circuit and bring their strong stagecraft and performance acumen to the overall look and feel of the show. The audience will surely be entertained by popular musical numbers such as “Candy Man” and a quartet of dance routines performed by the rowdy Oompa Loompas.
Willy Wonka JR will be performed on November 7 and 8, at the Lee Center, located at 1108 Jefferson St. Alexandria, VA 22314. Based on the classic book by Roald Dahl, Willy Wonka JR tells the story of the famous candy inventor, Willy Wonka, and the chaos that ensues when he decides to open his factory gates to five lucky kids and their parents for a tour. The story follows a young boy named Charlie Bucket and his journey from poverty to winning the ultimate prize, and it is much greater than a lifetime supply of chocolate. Willy Wonka JR touches on the troubles that are brought about when kids are left to be spoiled and bossy, and also shows how you can make beautiful things with a touch of “pure imagination.”
