Following its global viral fame, the Glasgow Willy Wonka Experience is now being turned into a musical parody. This infamous event, which led to children crying and police intervention due to family complaints, failed to live up to expectations.
Advertised as 'a celebration of chocolate in all its forms' and inspired by the 2023 Wonka film, attendees who shelled out £35 were greeted by a sparsely decorated warehouse offering merely a handful of jelly beans and a small amount of lemonade to the children present.
Nonetheless, a distinguished group of songwriters from film, television, and theatre have united to craft a musical parody drawing inspiration from the viral phenomenon. WillyFest - A Musical Parody, produced by Kraft-Engel Productions, is reportedly scheduled to debut later this year.
In their statement, songwriters Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner remarked, "From Broadway shows to street corner pop-ups, audiences are enthralled by immersive experiences that allow them to become part of the narrative. However, creating an event that disappoints both children and adults in equal measure requires a unique kind of enchantment. It seems the only way to make sense of this disaster, devoid of chocolate, is to turn it into song."
Producer Richard Kraft from Kraft-Engel Productions commented, "It's quite normal to have writers' rooms in the world of television, but applying this concept to theatrical songwriting is quite innovative and promises to yield brilliantly satirical and surprising outcomes. Imagine if Ed Wood and P.T. Barnum delved into 'environmental experiences' powered by boundless imagination but no funding; it could end up resembling this scenario. Where many might only see ruin in such a catastrophic event, we believe it distinctly calls for a musical!"
Additionally, a surprising talent has emerged from the debacle, set to thrill guests at The London Dungeon during the Easter season. Felicia, a 16-year-old from Glasgow, took on the role of 'The Unknown', a malevolent chocolatier rival that Wonka had to overcome.
Clad in a black cape and silver face mask, The Unknown would emerge from behind a mirror, sending shivers down the spines of children and eliciting screams of fright. Felicia shared her excitement about her upcoming role, saying, "I've always been a big fan of The Dungeons throughout the UK, having visited several as a guest. It's almost surreal to think that I'm now going to be the one frightening the visitors. Who could have imagined that my extraordinary Wonka ordeal would lead to this opportunity?"