A Sweet Treat for Families: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Heads to Manila
Willy Wonka’s whimsical world opens its doors to Manila audiences this July
Manila is about to unwrap a world filled with pure imagination as Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Broadway Musical makes its much-anticipated local debut this July.
Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved novel, the stage musical brings audiences inside Willy Wonka’s whimsical Chocolate Factory—this time with dazzling theatrical magic that families can experience together.
A Sweet Addition to Manila’s Growing Theater Scene
GMG Productions—the same company behind the successful Manila stagings of Les Misérables and Jesus Christ Superstar—has announced that it will be bringing the Broadway musical to Manila in partnership with Broadway International Group, Broadway Asia, HY Culture Fund, Doug Meyer, AMA Group, GMG Productions, UnionBank of the Philippines, Bergamot Front Row Fund, and Willette Klausner
The announcement follows the production’s well-received run in Beijing in 2025, setting high expectations for its Philippine stop. With musical theater continuing to flourish locally, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is shaping up to be one of the most family-friendly shows in the 2026 lineup.
Show Dates and Ticket Details
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will open on July 8 and run until July 26, 2026, at The Theatre at Solaire.
Theatre fans with UnionBank cards can enjoy an exclusive ticket presale from January 12 to 15 via TicketWorld. An early waitlist will also be available until January 14 at 11:59 p.m.
Tickets for the general public go on sale beginning January 17.
What Families Can Expect From the Show
At its heart, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is the story of kind-hearted Charlie Bucket and a group of children competing for the ultimate prize: a golden ticket that grants entry into the mysterious Chocolate Factory run by the eccentric Willy Wonka.
Onstage, the story comes alive with chocolate rivers, curious inventions, and the ever-mischievous Oompa-Loompas—making it a visual feast for kids and nostalgic adults alike.
Parents who grew up watching the 1971 film starring Gene Wilder will be happy to know that iconic songs like “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket” are part of the musical. These classics are seamlessly woven together with new music by Grammy® and Tony Award® winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, the creative duo who worked behind Hairspray and Mary Poppins Returns.
A Spectacle Powered by Imagination and Innovation
Producers and co-owners of Broadway International Group and Broadway Asia, Simone Genatt and Marc Routh, shared what audiences can look forward to.
“This new production features miraculous special effects and cutting edge hologauze 3D technology based on advanced magic principles. We are so excited to share the breathtaking world of this beloved Broadway musical about the power of imagination, and the art of invention with Beijing audiences in this spectacular new immersive production from an all-Broadway creative team!”
Another Must-Watch Musical for Families
With Charlie and the Chocolate Factory joining the 2026 theater roster, families have yet another reason to make musical theater a shared experience. Beyond the spectacle and catchy tunes, theater opens children up to storytelling, creativity, and imagination—much like Charlie’s own unforgettable journey inside Willy Wonka’s factory.
Start saving those golden tickets—this is one playdate the whole family won’t want to miss.
For more information, please visit www.broadwayasia.com
More musicals and theater plays
Feel Good Family Theater: Why A Christmas Carol Still Hits the Heart
4 Reasons Families Should Watch Jesus Christ Superstar in 2026
You Are Not Alone: The Heartfelt Message Dear Evan Hansen Offers Families
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a family-friendly Broadway musical based on Roald Dahl’s beloved story. It’s best enjoyed by school-age children, especially those who can sit through a full-length show and appreciate storytelling through music and visuals.
Yes! Parents who grew up watching the 1971 film will be happy to hear iconic songs like “Pure Imagination,” “The Candy Man,” and “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket.” These classics are mixed with new songs created especially for the Broadway production.
The story is familiar, the visuals are exciting, and the themes—kindness, imagination, and curiosity—are easy for children to understand. It’s a great introduction to live theater and helps kids learn how stories are told beyond screens.
UnionBank presale: January 12–15 via TicketWorld
Early waitlist: Until January 14 at 11:59 p.m.
General sale: Starts January 17
Booking early is recommended, especially for weekend and matinee shows.
