If you haven’t heard of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory yet, you’re missing out on a childhood classic that has stood the test of time. Roald Dahl’s unforgettable story of Willy Wonka and his magical chocolate factory has captivated generations through its book, movies, and stage productions. The latest version, now playing at Virginia Rep, brings a fresh energy to this beloved tale and is something I hope becomes a new holiday tradition here in Richmond.
I had the opportunity to sit down with my friend Matt Shofner , who plays the iconic Willy Wonka, after seeing the show this past weekend. We talked about his experience with the production and what makes this version so special.
R. Anthony Harris: Have you recovered from the weekend yet?
Matt Shofner: Oh, I don’t think I’ll fully recover until January 13, but yeah, I’m getting through this week.
RAH: (Laughs) I can imagine. So, I’ve got a few questions for you. How did you get involved with this production?
Matt Shofner: Well, Rick Hammerly, the artistic director, reached out to me about a couple of weeks before rehearsals started. I came in and auditioned with Kylan (Dowdy), one of the actors who ended up playing one of the Charlies. They called me back a few days later and said, “Hey, would you like to do this?”
RAH: And what were your initial thoughts about this role?
Matt Shofner: To be honest, I didn’t fully realize this was the version that had been developed for the West End and then brought to Broadway. When I got the script and started diving into it, I was like, “Oh, wow, this is huge.” It’s a massive show with big production numbers and everything. And here I am, coming off a five-year break from performing! The last show I did was Urinetown at The Basement, so I was a little rusty. But then I thought, “Okay, here we go.”
RAH: And stepping into such an iconic role like Willy Wonka, with so many memorable performances before you, did you feel any added pressure or was it more of an exciting challenge?
Matt Shofner: It was mostly excitement. It’s a huge honor and a big confidence boost to be trusted with such an iconic role, especially after my little hiatus from performance. When they offered it to me, I took a step back and thought, “This is a good fit for me.” I’ve always been known for having a quirky and unpredictable energy, so it felt natural. I also remember watching the 1971 Gene Wilder film as a kid in the late ’80s, and that movie really sparked my love for wackiness and fantasy stories. It was a gateway into discovering more of Roald Dahl’s books, and those fantastical worlds have definitely influenced who I’ve become.
RAH: I can see that—Gene Wilder’s performance is legendary. Now, how has the response been to the show so far?
Matt Shofner: So far, it’s been overwhelmingly positive. We’ve completed two weekends of our six-week run, and the audience response has been great. For a locally produced show, and especially from Virginia Rep, which is one of the biggest companies in the area, it’s been incredible. The production is massive, and the talent in the cast is phenomenal.
RAH: Oh, I agree. The set design alone was just so well put together and creative.
Matt Shofner: I think audiences who come to see the show are in for a real treat. It’s a visual spectacle, and the auditory experience is just as impressive. The band is solid, and the cast is full of incredibly talented performers with amazing voices. The sound design is fun and full of surprises, complementing the gorgeous costumes and intricate details like the props and scenic painting.
And, of course, the Oompa Loompas have earned multiple ovations whenever they make their entrance. There are so many surprising elements in this production that will delight both younger audiences and those who grew up with the story, giving them the chance to see it come to life on stage in a whole new way.
RAH: What was your reaction when you first saw the Oompa Loompas? I won’t spoil it, but they were unforgettable, stuff of nightmares! (laughs).
Matt Shofner: My jaw dropped! They’re designed in a way that’s unique to our production, but still inspired by the classic look from the 1971 film. What’s really cool is that each Oompa Loompa has a face based on the actor who manipulates the puppet, so they all look similar but still have their own unique features. It’s a subtle but neat detail.
RAH: That’s amazing! Now, when it comes to performing an iconic song like Pure Imagination, was there any extra pressure for you, or was it more of an exciting challenge?
Matt Shofner: There’s definitely a bit of pressure, but I think the song has often been performed by actors, not necessarily singers, so it’s really about focusing on the lyrics and the haunting melody and orchestration. There’s an interesting contrast in the song’s writing, where the orchestration and melody feel dissonant and haunting, while the lyrics are beautiful and hopeful. I was excited to take it on.
The biggest challenge, though, is that Pure Imagination comes just a couple of minutes after the intense song I sing at the start of Act 2. So, I go from doing all kinds of character voices and athletic performance to transitioning into something much slower and more heartfelt. It’s a huge structural shift. It’s about finding the right breath support, slowing down my heart rate, and getting the pacing right. And of course, once you add in the scenic elements that accompany the song, it really enhances the experience and makes it all come together beautifully.
RAH: The whole set really elevates the show. So many good creative solutions to what is a really complicated show, especially that scene. I was really impressed.
Matt Shofner: I don’t like to think of it as a competition, but this production is definitely on par with what’s happening on Broadway touring stages right now. It’s so exciting and impressive to be a part of. I get to wear this incredible costume and step out on stage, and the work of the designers really inspires me. It’s had a big impact on my performance and how I’ve approached the role.
RAH: Well, you’re certainly doing a fantastic job. Thanks again for taking the time to chat with me today.
Matt Shofner: Thank you, Anthony. It was great talking with you.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Willy Wonka or a newcomer to the story, Virginia Rep’s production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a treat for all. Be sure to check it out before it ends its six-week run. You might just find yourself transported to a world of imagination—Pure Imagination, to be exact.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory runs December 5 through January 12 at the historic November Theatre. Performances are Thursdays through Sundays, with select Wednesday matinees. Tickets are available at va-rep.org or by calling the box office at (804) 282-2620.
