Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a musical based on the 1964 children's novel of the same name by Roald Dahl, with book by David Greig, music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman.
From the producers of The Little Mermaid, Matilda and School of Rock — productions that have reached more than 500,000 spectators — a new international-scale theatrical phenomenon is now coming to Argentina: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Show, opening at Teatro Gran Rex in Buenos Aires in winter 2026.
Agustín “Rada” Aristarán is the newly announced star of this major production, taking on the role of the brilliant and eccentric Willy Wonka. After his acclaimed performances in Matilda, School of Rock and Chanta, the talented artist now embraces a new and challenging leading role in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
An international phenomenon arrives in Argentina
Based on Roald Dahl’s unforgettable novel and the beloved film starring Johnny Depp, the musical has toured the world’s most important stages since its premiere in London’s West End in 2013, directed by Sam Mendes, followed by Broadway and a highly successful U.S. tour.
The Argentine production promises to be one of the major theatrical events of 2026, with the search for the child cast marking the first step of this exciting journey.
An eccentric and visionary genius who turns chocolate into magic
Willy Wonka is an eccentric chocolate-making genius, owner of a factory where imagination and fantasy blend with the scent of cocoa. Mysterious and charming, he awakens wonder and curiosity in everyone around him. With wit, humour and a sensibility that balances tenderness and extravagance, he invites children to discover a world where anything is possible.
A message from the producers
“After the success of The Little Mermaid, Matilda and School of Rock, which attracted more than 500,000 spectators, the time has come for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Show. Each season, we choose titles that we ourselves enjoy watching with our families — that is our guiding principle. We also want every artist to live the dream of a lifetime, both onstage and backstage. Each new season is more than a show: it is a unique experience filled with music, emotion and magic,” said the producers.
About Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Show
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Show is a large-scale theatrical production that combines music, dance, live performances and a spectacular visual design. Produced by Ozono, MP and Los Rottemberg — creators of major hits such as The Little Mermaid, Matilda and School of Rock — and presented under licence from Music Theatre International (MTI), the production is set to become Argentina’s leading family theatre event of 2026.
The story invites audiences to enter the extraordinary world of the eccentric chocolatier Willy Wonka and follow Charlie Bucket and the five lucky Golden Ticket winners on an unforgettable adventure — an experience full of music, magic and emotion, brought to life by a creative team that has shaped milestones in Argentina’s theatrical scene.