"Willy Wonka" will be a sweet sight in Washington Park

But will there be Oompa Loompas?

Find out at this year's Washington Park production of "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory." The musical will feature songs from the 1971 movie, the one starring Gene Wilder and the chanting orange guys. Remember the rivers of chocolate? The gum that never loses its flavor?

Performances by an adult cast will be July 10-27, every evening except Mondays at 6:30 pm. Youth camp casts will perform July 19, 20, 26, 27, Saturdays 10 am and noon, and Sundays at noon.

The show is outdoors and free at the Washington Park Amphitheatre, 400 SW Kingston Way. Look here for more information.

Comments

[KarenP]

I grew up going to free musicals in Washington Park with my family, so I wanted to share this tradition with my kids. Last year, we went to see the adult cast's production of the Wizard of Oz, and it was a blast. Bring a blanket and a picnic and enjoy eating on the grass as you watch the show.

For those who aren't familiar with the Washington Park Amphitheater, it's a great spot. It's part of the Rose Gardens (the actual Rose Garden--as in flowers, not Trailblazers or overpriced concerts) and is basically a huge terraced lawn area with a platform up front. A huge hedge is the backdrop. They bring in sets, lights, and sound equipment. The kids have space to run around a bit before the show, and no one's going to worry if they get a bit wiggly as they would in a real theater.

After the show, the cast members come out and mingle with the audience, holding their hats to take donations, but they're also just happy to give autographs, pose for photos, or just interact with the kids.

Bring low-backed lawn chairs and a jacket--it does get chilly once the sun dips behind the hill. Come early enough to get good parking as that can be hard to come by at Washington Park.

[Marianne]

Thank you, KarenP, for describing perfectly the outdoor theater experience at Washington Park. We also saw the "Wizard of Oz" last year. My daughter was scared at first of the wicked witch. But seeing her up close after the show - and getting her autograph - made it a cool experience. See you there!

[Lisa]

we are thinking of going to the weeknight adult cast show. How early do you think we need to go for a good spot (parking and sitting?)

Do you know if they have any rules on drinks in picnics, or are they a little more lax? I know the zoo know doesn't allow any liquids into their concerts.