Argenta Contemporary Theatre Assembles Leading Arkansas Artists for "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory"

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rebecca Tennille

rebecca@jpjconsult.com

501-786-0525

Argenta Contemporary Theatre Assembles Leading Arkansas Artists for "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory"

Staff and Creative Team Represent Decades of Theatrical Excellence in Central Arkansas

NORTH LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (April 9, 2026) - Argenta Contemporary Theatre (ACT)

has assembled a remarkable group of Arkansas artists for its upcoming production of

“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” uniting performers and designers whose work has

shaped the region’s theatre community for decades.

A story as iconic as Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” calls for artists

who have helped define the stage over time—and ACT’s production does just that. Led

by Case Dillard as Willy Wonka, who appeared as Bert in Disney’s “Mary Poppins” on Broadway, the cast is joined by Judy Trice, known for her work with Arkansas

Repertory Theatre and the Academy Award–winning film, “Sling Blade,” and Mark

Hansen, whose decades of work at the Arkansas Arts Center Children’s Theatre has

influenced generations of young performers and audiences across the state.

Behind the scenes, costume designer Yslan Hicks brings a distinguished national

portfolio, with credits including Lincoln Center Institute in New York City, Goodman

Theatre in Chicago, Portland Center Stage, The Old Globe in San Diego, and

Williamstown Theatre Festival. Her collaboration with Arkansas Repertory Theatre

spans more than two decades, reflecting a sustained impact on the state’s theatrical

Landscape.

They are joined by a company of accomplished Arkansas artists, including actors Leigh

Ann Ralston, Brandon Paul Eells, Patti Airoldi, scenic designer Miranda Young Rice,

and lighting designer Gene Gephardt—collaborators whose continued work reflects the

depth, continuity, and creative strength of the region’s theatre community.

“This production is a celebration of the artists who have built theatre in this region over time,” said Artistic Director Coburn Goss. “Many of these collaborators have worked together across decades, shaping not only individual productions but the broader creative community here in Central Arkansas. Bringing them together for 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' is an opportunity to honor that shared history while inviting new audiences into it.”

Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved novel, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” features a score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (“Hairspray”) and includes songs from the

classic film such as “The Candy Man” and “Pure Imagination.” The production promises a visually imaginative and musically vibrant experience for audiences of all ages.

Previews start April 22 and the production runs through May 9.

TICKETING INFORMATION:

$75 VIP balcony seating

$60 for premium seating

$40 for standard tickets

$25 rush tickets day of show upon availability.

Please visit argentacontemporarytheatre.org for more information.  

About the Argenta Contemporary Theatre 

ACT is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to nurturing and advancing the

performing arts through performance, education, and community collaboration. We

recognize that today’s artists operate in a culturally diverse and technologically evolving

environment, and ACT is committed to promoting and presenting work that reflects

these dynamic conditions at both our mainstage theater and education center.

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