![](../images/for_pdf/0907-03601.jpg) | | Cast A performs at 4 p.m. Friday, June 5 and at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 6. Photos Robyn Lewis | | | | | | Wagner Ranch Elementary School's magical musical, "Willy Wonka Jr.," opens this Friday, June 5. Writer Roald Dahl started the story in 1961 and worked through multiple drafts for three years to create one of the world's sweetest children's classics, still beloved more than 50 years after its original release.
Filled with Dahl's trademark humor and whimsy, the inspiration for the story came from his own childhood experiences as a tester for a chocolate company. His story follows young Charlie, whose honesty, bravery and kindness are rewarded when a reclusive candy maker introduces him to a world where fantasy is reality.
Director Ron Pickett, producers Ara Jelalian and Jackie Lawrence-Knight, and musical director Derek Luscutoff have worked tirelessly with the fourth- and fifth-grade actors for months, crafting a theatrical event of pure imagination suitable for all ages.
The show will be presented at Wagner Ranch at 4 and 7 p.m. Friday, June 5 and at 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday, June 6. Tickets, which are $12 for reserved seats and $10 for general seating, are available at the door or through www.showTix4u.com.
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