Berkeley Playhouse presents an engaging and magical production of "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory”

By Stephanie Wright Hession

Arts and Culture Writer

Fans of Roald Dahl's "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory," will delight in the Berkeley Playhouse’s engaging and magical production of "Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory," based on this book.

Directed by Elizabeth McKoy, the company’s artistic director, the musical features wonderful performances by a cast with amazing energy. It includes the fabulous Vernon Bush (center, above as The Candyman and below as Willy Wonka).

“Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory,” weekends, through Aug. 19. Julia Morgan Theatre, 2646 College Avenue, Berkeley. $17-$35 plus $1.50 theatre improvement fee per ticket. (510) 845-8542, www.berkeleyplayhouse.org.

Directed by Elizabeth McKoy. Music and lyrics by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse. Adapted for the stage by Leslie Bricusse and Tim McDonald.

Photos by Larry Abel