Bethany Tapee Contributor
“Oompa Loompa Doompadee Doo - We have a performance perfect for you!”
“Oompa Loompa Doompadee Day - Starring students from the city of Gray!”
Jones County Arts proudly presents its summer musical, Willy Wonka Jr., based on the beloved children’s book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl. Join Charlie Bucket, played by Matthew Hough, and Grandpa Joe, played by Dakota Musselman, on their fantastical tour through Willy Wonka’s world-famous chocolate factory, played by Jacob Adams. Watch as Charlie’s fellow tour members encounter marvelous sights and tastes with Wonka, but only one can win the Wonka prize. Who will it be: Charlie Bucket, spoiled-rotten Veruca Salt - played by Ava Gale; gluttonous Augustus Gloop - played by Brooke Cain; gum-chewing Violet Beauregarde - played by Reagan Crawford; or television fanatic Mike Teavee - played by Mackensley Crowe? Purchase golden tickets for the family today to learn how the story will end!
Performances will be at the W.E. Knox Civic Center Saturday, June 29, at 7 p.m. and Sunday, June 30, at 3 p.m. Tickets are available for presale at jonescounty. booktix.com and must be purchased using a credit card. Tickets will also be available at the door before each performance using cash or check only. Reserved seating is $15 for all ages, and general admission is $10 for adults and $8 for students.
During Jones County Arts’ week-long summer camp from June 24-28, talented students who have graduated from grades 3-12 will work together to produce the magical production of Willy Wonka Jr., transporting audiences into a world of pure imagination.
Cast member Dakota Musselman, a recent 2024 graduate, plays Grandpa Joe in the production and has been in many Jones County Arts performances since the program began in 2016.
Willy Wonka Jr. is Musselman’s final performance with Jones County Arts, as he will attend Oconee Fall Line Technical College in the fall to pursue a degree in Radiologic Technology.
“I always look forward to the summer show because I get to spend time with my Jones County Arts family. We always have so much fun during the summer, sharing laughs and memories. I am going to miss JCA so much. The program has amazing young talent that can delight audiences of all ages. Do not miss out on the fun,” Musselman said.
For more information about Willy Wonka Jr. or Jones County Arts, such as upcoming productions and how students can register to participate, visit the JCA website: www.jonescountyarts.org, or on Instagram at @jonescountyarts.
