Skip to Content

Summer Camp: Willy Wonka Kids June 16-20

Starts
Ends
Add to calendar:

Show in a week! - June 16 to June 20

Monday through Friday: 9am - 3pm

Show Time:  Friday, June 20 at 7:00PM


Final show is a ticketed event.  Tickets go on sale Wednesday morning of the summer camp week. Ticket prices are $12 to $15.  There is no mandatory/minimum ticket purchase.

Buy Tickets

Age Range: 7 years and up
Director: 
Ms. Abby
Experience:  None required!
Non-Refundable:  $75 is non-refundable
Withdrawal/Refund:  If student withdraws before first rehearsal begins, the program fee, minus the non-refundable portion, will be refunded.  After first rehearsal beings, 100% of program fee is non-refundable.

Production Details

We are excited to welcome you to our youth theater program! As a parent of a theater student, you may be wondering what to expect from this enriching experience. Following is an overview of our youth theater program, what your child will learn and what you can look forward to during the production.

Our Productions

Our youth theater shows are licensed productions that include high quality musical orchestration recordings and scripts.  The shows are full, age-appropriate productions directed by our professional Directors with years of theater experience.  This is a “teaching program” that is inclusive of all students.  No experience required.  Every student who enrolls is guaranteed a role (or multiple roles).  Auditions are not required to join the production, but auditions are required in order for our Directors to assign roles.  Cold reading is done in the first rehearsal and singing auditions are usually held during the second rehearsal of most productions.  We limit our shows to 27 or fewer students.  If we have more than 27 students we will form an additional cast.  We do this so our Directors can dedicate more time to each student and improve their growth in the theatrical arts.  Multiple casts also provide us a built-in “under study” for every role in every cast should we need to fill a role along the way.  Multiple casts also means more opportunities for leading and secondary roles.  Students will have a great time, make friends, and build relationships while learning and growing in the theatrical arts.

Learning Experience

Participating in a theater production is a comprehensive educational journey. Your child will develop a variety of skills, including:

  • Acting Techniques:  Students will learn how to embody their characters, understand script analysis, and deliver lines with emotion and clarity.
  • Collaboration:  Theater is a team effort. Your child will work closely with peers, learning the importance of communication, trust, and support in a collaborative environment.
  • Creative Expression:  Students will explore their creativity through character development, improvisation, and storytelling, allowing them to express themselves in unique ways.

Costumes

Costumes play a vital role in bringing a production to life.  Costumes are not included in the program fee and must be obtained by the student family.  Most costumes can be purchased for under $50, custom made, or assembled with items around your home, thrift stores, or borrowing from friends and family.  Our Directors and production coordinators will offer guidance and suggestions to help with the look and feel for continuity with the show and other actors and actresses.  In certain situations the school might provide role-specific accessories or props.

Choreography

For productions that include dance or movement, students will learn choreography during rehearsals. They will learn how to integrate movement with their acting, enhancing their performance and adding depth to the storytelling. This aspect of theater encourages physical expression and helps build confidence.

Theater Tech

Behind the scenes, students will gain insight into the technical aspects of theater, including lighting, sound, and set design. They will learn how these elements contribute to the overall atmosphere of the production. This knowledge is invaluable, as it fosters an appreciation for the collaborative nature of theater.

Microphones

To ensure that every performance is heard clearly, we provide microphones for each student. This allows them to focus on their performance without worrying about projection, enabling them to deliver their lines with confidence. Students will receive training on how to use the microphones effectively, which is an essential skill in modern theater.

Other Aspects of Theatrical Arts

In addition to acting, choreography, and technical skills, your child will also learn about stage management, audience engagement, improvisation, and the importance of rehearsal discipline. They will experience the thrill of live performance, understanding the hard work and dedication that goes into each show.

Private/Closed Rehearsals

Please note that per licensing contract and in the interest of safety, only actors/actresses, staff, crew, volunteers, and other production coordinators are allowed in the recital hall during rehearsals.

Student Conduct

We strive to create a safe, positive and respectful learning environment for all participants and aim to foster creativity, collaboration, and personal growth while ensuring that all students understand their responsibilities and the expectations of behavior.  We expect students to arrive on time, prepared, and ready to engage in the lesson. Respect for the instructor, fellow students, and the learning space is paramount; this includes listening attentively, refraining from disruptive behaviors, and maintaining a positive attitude. Students are encouraged to express themselves and ask questions, but must do so in a manner that is considerate of others. Any behavior that undermines the learning experience, such as excessive talking, distractions, or disrespectful comments, will be addressed promptly. Our goal is to foster a supportive community where every student can thrive and develop their musical talents.

For all our policies please visit our polices page:

https://jieun-lee-music-academy.odoo.com/policies

Length of Show

Kids productions (7 to 12 year olds) are usually a single act show lasting 30 to 40 minute.  Junior productions (5th grade and up) are usually two act shows lasting 60 to 70 minutes with a 15 minute intermission.

Rehearsals

Fishers:  Rehearsals are in The Switch Theatre inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.  Final shows are in same theater.

Carmel:  Rehearsals are in Goodwin Hall inside Meridian Music School.  Spring and Fall shows are held at The Switch Theatre.  Summer camp shows are held in Goodwin Hall.

Auditions

Auditions are not required to participate in our theater programs.  Every student who enrolls in the program is guaranteed a role (perhaps multiple roles).  There is a cold reading audition during the first rehearsal and a singing audition during the second rehearsal.  The songs for the singing audition will be taught during the first rehearsal.  This approach allows our Directors to make the best decision for role assignments.  Our Directors make their decisions based on students’ performance during the first and second rehearsals and which students they believe best fit the unique needs of each character in the show.

Program Fee

Includes the following:

  • Script
  • Music tracks
  • Rehearsals
  • Number of Shows
    • Summer Camps:  1 Show
    • Spring & Fall:  2 Shows
    • Summer Teen:  2 Shows
  • Show T-Shirt
  • Video (only when video license available).  Most shows have video license.

Audio/Video Recording

Please note these programs are copyrighted works of art.  Recording any portion of the show is prohibited, but most (not all) productions come with an optional video recording license. If such license is available we will secure the rights to video record the show.  Our theater in Fishers is equipped with professional recording equipment.  When allowed, we will provide a professionally recorded copy of the final show.

Tech Week

Tech week includes at least one regular rehearsal and one dress rehearsal followed by shows on Friday, Saturday, and/or Sunday.

Call Time

60 to 70 minutes before showtime

Locations

Fishers:  The Switch Theatre inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.
Carmel:  Goodwin Hall inside Meridian Music School

Tickets

Final shows are ticketed events with assigned seating.  We will notify families multiple times before the start of ticket sales so everyone has equal opportunity to purchase tickets.  All sales are final.  NO REFUNDS!  Due to assigned seating and the fact most of our shows sell out, we do not refund ticket purchases.  Purchase tickets here:

Switch Theatre:  https://switchtheatre.simpletix.com
Goodwin Hall:  https://goodwinhall.simpletix.com/

The Switch Theatre

All productions (except Carmel summer camps) take place in The Switch Theatre in Fishers.  This black box style theater is located inside Ji-Eun Lee Music Academy.  With comfortable seating for up to 175, our theater has a raised, 30′ x 20′ stage, theatrical lights and special effects, high quality audio, and back stage green rooms for our young actors and actresses.  When entering the theater you are greeted with a nice lobby featuring a concession stand serving many standard concession candies, cotton candy, popcorn, wide variety of drinks, and other concession items.

Enrollment in our youth theater production guarantees your young actress/actor will be cast in the production -- no audition required.  There is an audition (usually during second rehearsal) that Directors need to determine casting.  Students will receive basic audition prep and guidance before audition day.

How to prepare for an audition.

Preparing for a musical theater audition can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking experience. To set yourself up for success, it’s essential to start with a solid understanding of the material you’ll be performing. Choose a song that showcases your vocal range and acting abilities, and make sure it aligns with the character you’re auditioning for. Spend time analyzing the lyrics and the emotions behind them; this will help you deliver a more authentic and compelling performance. Additionally, practice your song repeatedly, focusing on both technical aspects, such as pitch and rhythm, and expressive elements, like dynamics and phrasing. Remember, confidence is key, so the more prepared you are, the more comfortable you will feel on audition day.

In addition to your song, be ready to demonstrate your acting skills and movement abilities. Many auditions will include a cold reading or a dance combination, so familiarize yourself with the material and be open to direction from the audition panel. Always remember to shake the director's hand when you first meet them; this simple gesture shows professionalism and respect. Warm up your body and voice before the audition to ensure you’re in peak condition. It’s also helpful to research the production and its characters, as this knowledge can inform your choices and help you connect with the material on a deeper level. Finally, remember to bring your unique personality to the audition; casting directors are looking for individuals who can bring characters to life in a way that is fresh and engaging. Embrace the experience, and no matter the outcome, view it as an opportunity to learn and grow as a performer.

Things to Do at Home to Prepare for the Audition:

  • Choose Your Song: Select a song that fits the character and showcases your vocal strengths.
  • Practice Regularly: Set aside time each day to practice singing your chosen song, focusing on both technique and emotion.
  • Learn the Lyrics: Memorize the lyrics thoroughly to ensure you can perform confidently without looking at the music.
  • Record Yourself:  Use a phone or camera to record your practice sessions. This will help you identify areas for improvement.
  • Work on Acting: Practice delivering the song with emotion and character. Consider how the character would feel and express that in your performance.
  • Warm-Up Exercises: Incorporate vocal and physical warm-up exercises into your routine to prepare your body and voice.
  • Research the Show: Learn about the musical and its characters to better understand the context of your audition piece.
  • Mock Auditions: Have family members or friends act as the audition panel and perform your song for them to simulate the audition experience.
  • Prepare Your Outfit: Choose an outfit that is appropriate for the audition and makes you feel confident.
  • Stay Positive: Practice positive affirmations and visualization techniques to build your confidence and reduce anxiety before the audition.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to shine in your musical theater audition!

While final shows are ticketed events, there is no mandatory ticket purchase amount.  You are free to buy as many or as few as you like.

The enrollment fee includes the following:

  • Rehearsals (Kids -12 weeks; Jr. - 15 weeks)
  • Professional script
  • Professionally recorded practice song tracks with sing-a-long vocals
  • Professionally recorded song tracks with no vocals (used during the shows)
  • T-Shirt
  • Video:  Recording of final show.  Only when video license is available.  Most shows have a video license

Willy Wonka, the greatest candy maker in the world, has a problem: it's time for him to retire, but who can replace him? Who will make new candy dreams come true?

Willy Wonka gathers all the Oompa-Loompas to announce his retirement and the search for the perfect "bright spark" of a child to replace him ("Golden Age of Chocolate").

Meanwhile, Charlie Bucket lives in a tiny shack with his family. They are very, very poor. Charlie's dad reads in the newspaper that Mr. Willy Wonka is having a contest! Golden Tickets have been hidden in five bars of chocolate; the lucky people who find Golden Tickets will win a tour of the factory and a lifetime supply of chocolate.

The local candy man arrives with his cart of Wonka treats and gives Charlie a sample "on the house" ("The Candy Man"). While enjoying his candy, Charlie learns that the enormous eater, Augustus Gloop, has found the first Golden Ticket in Munich, Germany. The reporter, Phineous Trout, announces that Veruca Salt has found the second Golden Ticket in São Paulo, Brazil. Veruca's father assisted her search by having factory workers shell chocolate wrappers.

Charlie makes his way home to a "Surprise!" It's Charlie's birthday! Charlie receives a Wonka bar as his present, but no Golden Ticket is found. The family tunes in to the radio, only to learn Violet Beauregarde, of Snellville, Georgia, has found the third Golden Ticket. Violet is a gum chewer who switched to chocolate in order to win the contest, but is now back to constantly chewing gum. Phineous Trout interrupts to announce that Mike Teavee, in Television City, California, has found the fourth Golden Ticket. Mike and his mother explain that the only thing they need is TV, the Internet and computer games.

The city is blanketed in a deep snow and Charlie encounters the Candy Man on the way to school. Charlie finds a coin buried in the snow and asks the Candy Man if it belongs to him. The Candy Man rewards Charlie with a Wonka bar for being "such a good kid." The starving boy wolfs it down and then immediately purchases another... finding the final Golden Ticket ("I've Got a Golden Ticket")! He runs home to tell his family the news, and they decide Grandpa Joe should accompany Charlie on the tour of Wonka's factory ("At the Gates – Pure Imagination").

Wonka greets the five winners and their parents at the gates, and they begin their tour of the magical factory ("Factory Reveal Sequence"). They arrive at the Chocolate Smelting Room, where Wonka chills chocolate to the perfect temperature for dipping strawberries. Augustus cannot resist tasting the chocolate and falls into a vat of it, which hardens instantly like Magic Shell, trapping him. The Oompa-Loompas remove Augustus and his mother and reveal the moral of easting too much ("Oompa-Loompa 1"). They arrive at the Inventing Room, where Violet is tempted by the Everlasting Gourmet Gobstopper. She snatches one, chews it and swells like a giant blueberry. The Oompa-Loompas remove her and her mother and explain the hazards of children who chew gum too much ("Oompa-Loompa 2").

Charlie and Grandpa Joe are separated from the group and discover the Fizzy Lifting Drink. They taste a bit of the drink and fly towards the sky. Right before they are sucked into a large fan, they discover that, by burping, they can float safely back to the ground ("Burping Song"). They rejoin the group in the Nut Room, where Veruca demands a squirrel, a pink candy boat and an Oompa-Loompa ("I Want it Now!"). Veruca and her father disappear down a trash chute that may or may not lead to the incinerator, and the Oompa-Loompas discuss the moral of spoiled brats ("Oompa-Loompa 3").

With just Charlie, Grandpa Joe, Mike and Mrs. Teavee left, the tour reaches the Choco-vision Room, whre Mike meets his temptation and is shrunk to barely six inches tall. The Oompa-Loompas discuss the moral of too much TV and technology ("Oompa-Loompa 4").

At the conclusion of the tour, Charlie does something remarkable: he thanks Wonka for the tour and admits to breaking the rules by tasting the Fizzy Lifting Drink. Wonka reveals the truth: that the tour was a test of character, and only Charlie has succeeded! Wonka proclaims Charlie as his successor as Charlie's family joins them at Wonka's factory ("Finale").

Grandma Josephina

Charlie's three grandparents are mainly non-singing character roles. Cast performers that are innately interesting, who have good comic timing and are solid actors. These actors can double as Oompa-Loompas in the second half of the show.

Gender: female

Grandma Georgina

Charlie's three grandparents are mainly non-singing character roles. Cast performers that are innately interesting, who have good comic timing and are solid actors. These actors can double as Oompa-Loompas in the second half of the show.

Gender: female

Grandpa George

Charlie's three grandparents are mainly non-singing character roles. Cast performers that are innately interesting, who have good comic timing and are solid actors. These actors can double as Oompa-Loompas in the second half of the show.

Gender: male

The Candy Man Kids

Sophie, Danny, Alfie, Billie and additional kids as needed are The Candy Man Kids -. These kids sing "The Candy Man" and their numbers may be expanded as you see fit and your program will allow. The names of the characters have been drawn from other Roald Dahl books. Feel free to assign additional names to match the number of performers you cast. All students like to go home and exclaim "I'm playing Alfie" versus "I'm just Kid 2 in 'The Candy Man.'") You may also cast a single class (say the sixth grade chorus) to perform these roles, as they appear only in this number unless you choose to double them as Cooks and Oompa-Loompas.

Gender: any

Oompa-Loompa Chorus

The Oompa-Loompa Chorus can be as small as a handful of performers or as large as your stage and theater can accommodate. Consider casting your youngest performers as Oompa-Loompas and augment them with a handful of older students who can take the lead and serve as Oompa-Loompa wranglers.

Gender: any

Willy Wonka / Candy Man

Willy Wonka is an enigmatic character; at once mysterious and mischievous but also charismatic. There are a number of directions to take with Wonka, ranging from Gene Wilder's version in the original film, Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory, to Johnny Depp's portrayal in the recent film, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, and everything in between. Pick a young man (or a young woman) who is charismatic, engaging and has a great voice (in the case of a young man, preferably a changed voice). The actor should be able to be funny and serious and change between the two on a dime. It is preferred that Wonka double as the Candy Man, as it helps reinforce that Wonka has staged the Golden Ticket competition and is somewhat controlling this contest along the way.

Gender: male
Vocal range top: E5
Vocal range bottom: G3

Phineous Trout

Phineous is the reporter who announces the winners of the Golden Ticket contest throughout the show. The role requires some singing, and can be played by either a boy or a girl. If played by a girl, be sure to change the pronouns appropriately.

Gender: any

Mrs. Gloop

Mrs. Gloop is Augustus' mother who has overindulged her son with food. The role requires a character actress who isn't afraid to take positive risks both in her acting and her singing.

Gender: female

Violet Beauregarde

Gum chewer extraordinaire, Violet hails from Snellville, Georgia, so it's nice if she has a Southern American accent, but not necessary. Violet should stand in stark contrast to Veruca Salt. Veruca is a wealthy refined brat; Violet is more of a blue-collar, middle-class brat. 

Gender: female
Vocal range top: Db5
Vocal range bottom: C4

Matilda

Matilda is also a schoolmate of Charlie's, but she's a bit of bully. Matilda has a few lines and sings the introduction of "The Candy Man" along with James and Charlie.

Gender: female
Vocal range top: B4
Vocal range bottom: C#4

Candy Man

The Candy Man goes from neighborhood to neighborhood selling candy, much like an ice cream truck. He should be pleasant, charismatic, and friendly.  It's possible for a girl to play this role, but she should play the role as male, otherwise, the title of the song may not make sense.

Gender: male
Vocal range top: E5
Vocal range bottom: G3

Mr. Bucket

These are great roles for young people who have nice voices, and are natural nurturers. Mr. and Mrs. Bucket can double as Oompa-Loompas in the second half of the show.

Gender: male

Mike Teavee

For this adaptation Mike is not just a TV junky. He is also addicted to video games, the Internet and any other mindnumbing technological device. Mike is bratty, loud and obnoxious. He does not know the word "no." Mike could also be portrayed by a girl playing a boy, but generally works best with a male actor.

Gender: male
Vocal range top: Db5
Vocal range bottom: Db4

Squirrels

The squirrels are non-speaking, non-singing roles and you can cast as many as necessary. This is a great part for beginning actors.

Gender: any

Charlie Bucket

The role of Charlie Bucket is the emotional heart and soul of the musical. The actor performing Charlie should have an unchanged voice and lots of pluck and enthusiasm. Think a male "Annie." Charlie is in nearly every scene, so make sure you select an actor who can handle the demands of a sizable role.

Gender: male
Vocal range top: D5
Vocal range bottom: A3

Mrs. Bucket

These are great roles for young people who have nice voices, and are natural nurturers. Mr. and Mrs. Bucket can double as Oompa-Loompas in the second half of the show.

Gender: female

Augustus Gloop

Augustus is the overachieving eater who represents the evils of eating too much. Be extremely sensitive in casting this role as it is tempting to cast an overweight young person and that can be scarring-especially if the child struggles with this issue. Consider casting a thin child and creating the illusion of size via the costume. Either a boy or a girl acting like a boy can play Augustus.

Gender: male
Vocal range top: Db5
Vocal range bottom: Eb4

Ms. Teavee

Ms. Teavee is a take on all television moms of the distant past. Think June Cleaver (Leave it to Beaver) or Marion Cunningham (Happy Days) or Carol Brady (The Brady Bunch). She's perfectly put together and a bit vacant.

Gender: female

Veruca Salt

Veruca is the wealthy, class-conscious, spoiled brat. She is often portrayed with a high British accent that is by no means required (brats come in all nationalities). Veruca's solo number "I Want It Now" is deceptively tricky and comes late in the show, so select a young woman with a strong voice. Veruca should contrast sharply with Violet Beauregarde in terms of look and physical type.

Gender: female
Vocal range top: D5
Vocal range bottom: A3

James

James is Charlie's friend from school. He has a few lines and sings the introduction of "The Candy Man" along with Matilda and Charlie.

Gender: male
Vocal range top: A4
Vocal range bottom: A3

Mrs. Beauregarde

Mrs. Beauregard is a teacher of geography and has invested a great deal of hard-earned money on therapy for her orally fixated daughter, with less than stellar results. The role is virtually non-singing. Her accent should match Violet's.

Gender: female

Grandpa Joe

Grandpa Joe is the grandfather we all wish we had when we were Charlie's age. He is caring, patient, sweet and always reminds Charlie to remain cheerful. Cast an actor who can be kind and funny.

Gender: male
Vocal range top: D5
Vocal range bottom: C4

Chorus Of Cooks

Please note this is an optional chorus. The Cooks appear during "I Eat More!" presenting Augustus with a smorgasbord of food choices. (Check out the Director's Guide note in the song for more information.) Double the Candy Man Kids Chorus and Oompa-Loompa Chorus or cast a single class of kids to perform this section. (For example, Mrs. Ripley's third grade class.)

Gender: any

Mr. Salt

Mr. Salt's solution to most problems is to buy his way out. He is upper class, and usually portrayed with a high British accent. (But this accent is not necessary-just make sure Veruca and Mr. Salt sound like they hail from the same place.) He sings very little. A female actress playing male may also play the role.

Gender: male

  • The Candy Man
  • Golden Age of Chocolate
  • At the Gates (Pure Imagination)
  • Factory Reveal Sequence
  • Oompa-Loompa 2
  • Oompa-Loompa 3
  • Burping Song
  • Oompa-Loompa 4
  • (I've Got a) Golden Ticket
  • Oompa-Loompa 1
  • I Want It Now!
  • Bows

Timeline

Daily schedule is below.  It is subject to be changed depending on casts of the week.  

Monday

AM

Check in with a director and a councelor.

Cold Reading, learn about singing audition and song selections.

Audition for roles. 

Monday

PM

Announce the Roles.

Reading the script with roles and divide the ensemble parts.

Blocking.

Costume ideas will be sent to parents and cast members will discuss together.

Learning Songs.

Tuesday

AM

Review blocking.

Learn songs of the first half of the show.

Adding choreography.

Tuesday

PM

Review blocking.

Learn songs of the second half of the show.

Add choreography.
Wednesday

AM


Review of the blocking and choreography.
Acting details using the backstage.
 
Wednesday

PM

Memorize the lings and songs

Character development/details.
Thursday

AM

Run through first time with light cues utilizing the backstage.

Costume review.
Thursday

PM

Tech 1

Run through with lights, sound, and MICs!

Brush up.  Work on details.
Friday

AM

Tech 2

Run through with lights, sound, and MICs!

Brush up.  Work on details.
Friday

PM

Show run through.

Prepare for performance.

Discuss improvements, what to expect for show, and other last minute details.

Friday

EVENING

Show time!

Check Out Our Previous Shows!

Click on a show for photos and synopsis of a previous show!

Your Dynamic Snippet will be displayed here... This message is displayed because you did not provide both a filter and a template to use.