London Theatre | 4 June – 18 September 2027
Golden tickets are on sale. Michael Ball will star as Willy Wonka in a brand-new production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the London Coliseum for a limited summer run in 2027. To mark tickets going on sale, he’s released a music video of “Pure Imagination”.
Here are five reasons to book.
1. Michael Ball as Wonka
The double Olivier Award winner, Grammy nominee and multi-platinum recording artist is one of the West End’s best-loved stars, known for Les Misérables, Hairspray and Sweeney Todd. He’ll play Wonka at the London Coliseum only. Watch him sing “Pure Imagination” below:
2. The classic songs are in
Alongside an original score by Marc Shaiman (Hairspray), with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman, the show features the much-loved songs from the 1971 film by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley: “Pure Imagination”, “The Candy Man” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket”. The book is by David Greig. The musical was last in the West End in 2017, after three years at Theatre Royal Drury Lane.
3. Chocolate rivers and singing Oompa-Loompas
Join Charlie Bucket, Grandpa Joe, Augustus Gloop, Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde and Mike Teavee as they step through the factory gates into a world where chocolate rivers flow and every room holds a surprise. Expect illusions by Chris Fisher (Back to the Future: The Musical, Stranger Things: The First Shadow), puppets by Rachael Canning and video design by Tony winner George Reeve.
4. From the team behind Kinky Boots
It’s directed by Curve’s artistic director Nikolai Foster, whose Kinky Boots also played the Coliseum, with choreography by Ebony Molina and costumes by Olivier winner Katrina Lindsey (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child). The production opens first at Curve in Leicester from 21 November 2026 to 16 January 2027, with a different cast, before coming to London.
5. A limited summer run
The London run lasts just over three months, from 4 June to 18 September 2027, with press night on 20 June. It’s a perfect family treat for the summer holidays, so book early for the best seats. An alternate Wonka will be announced later.
Tickets and info
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
London Coliseum, St Martin’s Lane, London WC2N 4ES
Friday 4 June – Saturday 18 September 2027
Tickets on sale now
Nearest stations: Leicester Square and Charing Cross