A local actor is celebrating after getting a starring role in Sam Mendes’ West End version of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Jack Shalloo, 26, from Hornchurch, will be playing the part of Mr Bucket, Charlie’s dad in the new musical, which will focus on his struggles with money.
Director Sam Mendes has focused on the original book by Roald Dahl to recreate the story of when Charlie wins a golden ticket to the Wonka Chocolate factory
Jack said: “I think it’s wonderful and it’s a very brave direction to recreate it on stage. People have a strong connection with the songs and the story and the adaptation has to reflect that.”
He added: “Sam has concentrated on Charlie’s parents at the beginning of the musical and their struggle to provide for their son after Mr Bucket loses his job. There wasn’t a big focus on them in the original film, but Sam has stayed true to the book.”
Jack, who is no stranger to the limelight, took on his first role in the West End when he was younger in Oliver! – another Sam Mendes adaptation.
He trained at Colins Performing Arts, in Romford, and recently played Georgie in Clockwork Orange at Stratford East Theatre Royal. He has also appeared in feature films Fit, Kick-Off and Bashment as well as TV programme’s Miranda Hart’s New Year’s Eve sketch show, Holby City and The Bill.
The adaptation is currently in previews, but will open at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane officially on June 25.
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