About
Based on the famous novel by Roald Dahl, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory features an original score composed by Marc Shaiman with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray) and a book by David Greig. The score also pays homage to the Leslie Bricusse/Anthony Newley score from the 1971 film with songs from the motion picture including “Candy Man”, “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket”, “Oompa Loompa Song”, and “Pure Imagination”, with creative choreography and a live orchestra, this show celebrates the power of imagination and proves that dreams really can come true.
Willy Wonka, the renowned chocolatier, grants five golden tickets to his extraordinary factory, ushering in a life-altering experience for the humble Charlie Bucket. Within its walls, they’ll explore a realm of pure imagination, witnessing chocolate rivers, mischievous squirrels, and the soaring glass elevator, all under the watchful eyes of the Oompa-Loompas. As the tour unfolds, comical and challenging trials reveal the true character of each visitor, ultimately highlighting that only Charlie’s virtue earns him the final reward.
Creative Team
We are delighted to announce our creative team for our production of Charlie and The Chocolate Factory!
PIPPA DUFFY, Director
“I cannot wait to direct my first production for CAOS – It’s going to be truly sweet, and full of magic!”
NICHOLAS SHEEHAN Musical Director
“I’m very excited to bring this magical show and wonderful score to life, working with incredible local talent to create something amazing“.
KATY GRAHAM CLARE, Choreographer
“I’m beyond excited for my first show with CaOS! It’s an amazing opportunity to connect with the vibrant emerging talent in Cambridge and collaborate with new performers. I can’t wait to see the creativity that will come to life.“
Children’s auditions
We’re so excited to see you at the auditions!
This musical is packed with incredible kid characters like Charlie Bucket, Augustus Gloop, Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregard, and Mike Teavee. It’s your chance to show us what an awesome performer you are.
You must be aged between 9 and 18 years old on the 1st April 2026 to audition.
First-round audition will be in person on Sunday, October 5th, 2025, in Cambridge. You can book a slot at either 11am, 1:30pm, or 4pm.
For all the information you need about our Children auditions, the awesome characters and what the audition will entail click on the link below.
Adult Auditions
Thank you for your interest in auditioning for our next production. We are dedicated to creating a show of professional quality with local talent, and we can’t wait to see your unique abilities on full display. This musical is filled with an incredible cast of characters, from lovable family members to an eccentric inventor and outrageous reporters. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a rising star, there are some truly awesome roles to explore and make your own!
First-round auditions will be held in person on Wednesday, October 1st, and Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, from 7pm to 10pm.
For all the information you need about our Adult auditions, the characters, what the audition will entail, click on the link below.
Rehearsals
Rehearsals for all adults & children will be held in Chesterton, Cambridge, and start from 2nd January 2026 on the following days:
Wednesdays & Fridays, 7pm – 9.30pm
Sundays, 11am – 5pm (mostly in January and March towards show time)
There will be a full-day (10am – 5pm tbc) rehearsal for Children on Friday 2nd January 2026 that all Children must be available to attend.
Please do think carefully before auditioning if you can commit to our rehearsal schedule. We recognise that life can get in the way, but we do expect cast members to be able to attend all rehearsals.
Other key dates for your diary you’ll need to commit to:
Sunday 29th March 2026 – all day (Tech)
Monday 30th March 2026 – all day (Tech)
Tuesday 31st March 2026 – all day (Dress rehearsals)
Wednesday 1st April 2026 – Evening performance at 7.30pm
Thursday 2nd April 2026 – Evening performance at 7.30pm
Friday 3rd April 2026 – Matinee & Evening performances (2.30pm & 7.30pm)
Saturday 4th April 2026 – Matinee & Evening performances (2.30pm & 7.30pm)
Our commitment to an inclusive cast
Our stage is for everyone. We want our productions to reflect the diverse people in our communities, so we especially welcome performers from the Global Majority, as well as trans and non-binary artists. Talent doesn’t come in one shape, age, or style, so we’re excited to see applications from people of all generations and from those who are neurodiverse. What matters most to us is creating a cast that feels authentic, welcoming, and inclusive in our mission to produce professional quality theatre with the local talent here in Cambridge and surrounding areas.