By SARA FURLONG

s.furlong@bradfordera.com

More than 40 students from four schools and an orchestra of more than a dozen members played a part in Bradford Area School District’s first districtwide musical in six years, and one thing is certain: It was a resounding success.

For the students’ production of ‘Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka,’ the BHS stage and auditorium were filled with fanciful, candy-colored creations such as a pink candy boat, a nut-sorting machine and fizzy lifting drinks to create an immersive audience experience. Assisting Andrew Dutko, BAHS vocal music instructor, were musical veterans Nanci K. Garris, Mikayla Schaumleffel, Emily Frederick and Courtney Renko as choreographer.

Jennie Jones, BAHS instrumental music teacher, directed a live orchestra of more than a dozen students and members. Songs included ‘Pure Imagination,’ ‘The Candy Man’ and ‘I’ve Got a Golden Ticket.’

Owen Troisi brought the charming yet eccentric chocolatier Willy Wonka to life. Patrick Smith as Charlie brought Ethan Lundgren as his Grandpa Joe along on the exclusive tour of the candy factory. The four golden ticket winners were Sebastian Smith as the gluttonous Augustus Gloop, Eda Edwards as the spoiled rich girl Veruca Salt, Payton Eddy as gum-smacking Violet Beauregarde and Damian Royer as television-obsessed Mike Teavee.

The Era asked followers of its Facebook

Wonka… page A-8

Bradford students staged a districtwide production of the musical “Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka” — the district’s first in six years — to rave community reviews.

Era photo by Daniella Langianese page to share their thoughts on the production.

“Excellent performance,” said local musician Jim Ronan. “High props to the group for their “professionalism” when the power went out,” he said, referring to Sunday’s outages brought on by severe storms and high winds. “They didn’t miss a beat! On a side note: I could go for a Wonka Bar!”

Jessica Langley Craig agreed. “Went on Sunday. Unfortunately the storm took the power out but nobody missed a beat. Kept pushing through. Lights came back on right as they were getting ready for their final bow. The show was amazing and they should all be so very proud. Great job to all involved!”

Skylar Adams said she and her family went Friday and Saturday “because we loved it so much. It was such a fun and entertaining show for all ages. Mr. Dutko truly puts on an amazing show every year!”

Kimberly Minard Bond said, “A wonderful production. The time and effort that everyone put into this production showed during their performance.”

“It was so fun and exciting to watch,” exclaimed Laquietta Ladlee. “From the costumes, the props, and singing … these students were amazing! For a lot of kids, this was their first theatrical production, and you would have never known. You could tell they put their heart and soul into practicing and performing, and enjoyed every minute. It was a wonderful feeling watching so many students come alive through performing arts.”