Lara Denning, Kraig Thornber & More Will Join Jonathan Slinger in West End’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

Some new faces are about to visit Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. On May 4, the West End production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will welcome Lara Denning as Mrs. Buckett and Kraig Thornber as Grandpa George. They take over for Kirsty Malpass and Billy Boyle, respectively, and join the previously announced Jonathan Slinger, who will assume the role of the whimsical candyman.

Denning previously appeared on the West End stage in Matilda. Thornber’s London credits include Return to the Forbidden Planet, Guys and Dolls and Oh! What a Lovely War.

Additionally, current cast members Ross Dawes and Derek Hagen will take over in the roles of Mr. Salt and Mr. Bucket, respectively. Also joining the cast on May 4 is Mark Oxtoby as Jerry.

The musical features a book by David Greig and music and lyrics by March Shaiman and Scott Wittman. Based on Roald Dahl’s 1964 children’s book, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory follows the adventures of young Charlie Bucket as he and four other children win golden tickets to visit the strange and eccentric world of Willy Wonka and his chocolate factory. The West End production officially opened on July 25, 2013, starring Tony and Olivier Award winner Douglas Hodge as Willy Wonka.