I promise you, after seeing the Atlanta Opera's The Golden Ticket last week, all I could think about was getting my hands on some sweet, sugary chocolate.
The Golden Ticket, a very family-friendly opera, is based off the book "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" by Roald Dahl. It made its Atlanta debut this past Saturday at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.
Yes, it's the story about the boy named Charlie with big dreams and a golden ticket. Yes, it's the story you remember about the chocolate rivers, oompa loompas, inflating blueberries and even a magic elevator! Yes, it's the story about wishes coming true. And, yes, I really enjoyed it!
The first act was where the audience got to meet the five children who were lucky enough to win golden tickets into Willy Wonka's revered Chocolate Factory. I was surprised to find out that all of the children, Agustus Gloop, Mike Teavee, Violet Beauregard, and my favorite the spoiled-rich girl Veruca Salt were all played by adults, except for Charlie who really is a young boy soprano.
The second act is where the memorable "fun" begins. This is where we actually enter into the factory and get to see how each child is ultimately "punished" for their bad behavior and greed, while the hero, Charlie, is actually rewarded by Mr. Wonka for his goodness by becoming the heir to the factory!
What I loved best about this opera is the fact that it's designed for new and younger opera audiences, helping to bring the opera experience to this group for perhaps their first time.
I also never knew that an opera could actually be funny, but to my surprise The Golden Ticket had many "laugh-out-loud" moments, especially from Charlie's grandparents who have apparently slept and lived in their bed for the last century!
From the beautiful costumes (especially those female squirrels in Turkish outfits) to the charming and moving stage sets, I thought The Golden Ticket was a delightful show that is best shared by the entire family.
The Golden Ticket is appropriate for children aged 7-18. Younger children who are particular fans of music and theater or mature for their ages may also find this opera enjoyable.
There are only three more performances left:
- Tuesday, March 6, 2012 at 7:30 PM
- Friday, March 9, 2012 at 8 PM
- Sunday, March 11, 2012 at 3 PM
The show runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes with one 15-minute intermission.
Single Tickets
$25 -$140 plus tax, convenience and venue fees
Special Pricing for Families
Family 4-Pack - Four tickets and a chocolate treat for only $150! Available for a limited time only, call 404-881-8885 or 1-800-35-OPERA (Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.).
Child Ticket
$15 child tickets are also available for all performances (limit 2 per adult ticket purchased at full price).
For more information or to purchase tickets call 404-881-8885 or 1-800-35-OPERA (Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.) or visit online at http://www.atlantaopera.org.
