Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at Altrincham Garrick

AFTER a generally awful Bleak Expectations, its awfulness a result of the script rather than the acting, normal service has been well and truly resumed at the Garrick, with an eye popping, spellbinding and uplifting production of Roald Dahl’s timeless classic.

There’s a theory which I came across on the Internet which says this timeless fantasy is somehow a critique of capitalism. But the oompa loompas, aka Wonka’s small army of workers, don’t look as if they’re being exploited to me.

Who cares if this theory is true? We’re all aching for a dose of good, old fashioned escapism in these challenging times.

The story is about a mysterious chocolate factory run by the enigmatic Wonka who offers five lucky kids a chance to win a guided tour of the place if they can get their hands on a much sought after golden ticket.

Most of the kids who win are obnoxious, spoilt and entitled, with the exception of the angelic Charlie Bucket.

Life is unrelentingly tough for Charlie who, despite coming from a loving family who don’t have two pennies to rub together, thinks nothing of sharing everything he has.

This role is being shared by three young actors, with Rui Yang Lau setting a very high standard on opening night.

He and Ivor Farley as Grandpa Joe are great together and had a strong chemistry between them when I saw this classic feel good show.

Alex Day, as the incurably obese Augustus Gloop, Lauren Brown as the spoilt rotten Veruka Salt, Nandi Nhariwa as the young diva Violet and Max Lawrence as the screen addicted Mike Teavee were equally impressive.

If you add a score that’s as delicious as one of Wonka’s chocolate bars its fair to say the Garrick has a huge musical hit on its hands.

Until October 26 and October 29 to November 2.

Star rating - 4.5 out of 5.

Tickets are available from 0161 928 1677 or www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk.