Entertainment
2 October, 2026
Wonka show’s sweet success
INNISFAIL State College’s production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory lit up the B block auditorium earlier this month, smashing attendance records with more than 800 tickets sold across four shows and a special matinee for 250 visiting students.
The musical became one of ISC’s most successful productions to date, showcasing the depth of talent across the college’s arts department.
The festival-like atmosphere extended beyond the stage. Thanks to support from the college’s P&C association, nine feeder schools were able to attend the matinee performance, giving the cast a full and enthusiastic audience.
Based on the adaptation by David Greig, with lyrics by Scott Wittman, music by Marc Shaiman and orchestrations by Doug Besterman, the musical brought Roald Dahl’s beloved story to life.
The tale follows Charlie Bucket, a kind-hearted boy who wins a golden ticket to explore Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory alongside four children whose exaggerated flaws lead to unforgettable misadventures.
A seven-piece band, under instrumental teacher Rebecca Allen Ankins added richness to the production, featuring teachers, students and community musicians including, Anita Berry, Natasha De Faveri, Darren Bridges, Oscar Van Haaren, Giacamo De Faveri, Tamara Gillard, Alex Langton, Kym Hall, Richard Graham, Esther Symes and Kyanna Wirth.
Drama teacher and director Kiana Gilder said the most rewarding part of the production wasn’t opening night, but watching students grow.
“Over the past few months, I’ve seen students step outside their comfort zones, build confidence, make new friendships and achieve things they never thought possible. Those moments are what make every rehearsal worthwhile,” she said.
Producer and vocal director Bec Topp joined Gilder in praising the cast, particularly leads Lochlan Collinson (Wonka), Elias Allen Ankins (Charlie), Caleb Howarth (Grandpa Joe), Amity Stewart (Veruca), Caidin Paton (Mr Salt), Mykah Howarth (Mrs Beauregarde), Ine Ferreria (Violet), Sophia Collinson (Mrs Gloop), Michaiah Bell (Augustus), Beverley Moua (Mrs Teavee) and Alicia McGowan (Mike Teavee).
Behind the scenes, choreographers Bianca Barnes and Jorja Zamora, sound and lighting technician Alex Langton, stage manager and designer Zac Burton, props and costume lead Chantelle Boase, and set designers Seb Vincent and Brittany Lascelles, supported by Lachlan Lyons, Lucas Blair and Noah Sharrock, ensured the show ran seamlessly.
Student musician Oscar Van Haaren said the experience was invaluable.
“I’d recommend any instrumental music student to take the opportunity as it was so much fun,” he said.
Lead actor Lochlan Collinson said: “ISC musicals are always performed at an extremely high standard and I’m so grateful to be part of such an incredible production.”
Read More: Innisfail