Mount Vernon Nazarene University (MVNU) has announced that its theatre department will present "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" from March 27-30, bringing Roald Dahl's classic story to life on stage. The announcement was made in a press release on March 21, 2025.
According to the press release, Mount Vernon Nazarene University Theatre will host the production at the Thorne Performance Hall in the R.R. Hodges Chapel/Fine Arts Center. The play follows young Charlie Bucket, portrayed by Madigan Kennedy, as he joins four other Golden Ticket winners on an exclusive tour of Willy Wonka’s mysterious chocolate factory. MVNU junior Tyler Maddux leads the cast as Willy Wonka, with Josiah Holloway as Augustus Gloop, Kyra Bradshaw as Veruca Salt, Kara Jenkins as Violet Beauregarde, and Caleb D’Imperio as Mike Teavee.
The production is directed by Sydney Moon, with assistance from Zane Menzie. Sabina Anderson serves as music director, Michelle Taylor is the choreographer, and Bryson McVay is the technical director. The show features vibrant music, engaging choreography, and elaborate set design. Evening performances are scheduled for March 27-29 at 7:00 p.m., with a matinee on March 30 at 2:00 p.m.
Moon said in the press release that theatre creates a strong community and fosters creativity and talent while strengthening social and emotional skills for everyone involved. She believes that having a robust theatre program enhances the overall MVNU experience for current and prospective students. Moon expressed her excitement about showcasing what they have achieved with this production due to their talented and hard-working creative team, cast, and crew.
Mount Vernon Nazarene University was established in 1968 as a Christian liberal arts institution in central Ohio affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. It offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, more than 30 varsity and club sports options, and various financial aid opportunities while following Wesleyan-Arminian theology.
