Pierson Middle School prepares for ‘Willy Wonka’

Pierson Middle School is set to bring the colorful world of Willy Wonka to life with a student-led
production that promises to be a sweet treat for the whole family. The show, which runs from
Jan. 24-26, will feature a talented cast of middle schoolers who have been working hard to create
an unforgettable experience.
This year, the costumes play a vital role in bringing Roald Dahl’s beloved characters to life. Kate
Deleski, an eighth grader who plays Mrs. Bucket, reflected on the character’s clothing choice and
social status. “The costumes represent the characters very well this year. For example, the Bucket
family wears clothes that are dirty and have holes in them because they are poor, which contrasts
Veruca Salt and Mr. Salt who wear very nice clothes, like a nice dress and a tuxedo, because they
are wealthy and fancy.”
The costumes also reflect the characters' personalities and habits. Evie Berkoski, an eighth grader
who plays Mrs. Beauregarde, says she will wear a blue velvet zip-up, symbolizing Mrs.
Beauregarde’s sporty and active nature and desire to match her daughter, Violet. Leo Tremblay,
an eighth grader who portrays Augustus Gloop, will wear a large, silly sweater, mirroring his
gluttonous and comedic character. "It really shows the audience who the characters are before
they even start talking," he remarked.
As Pierson tradition goes, the musical will be accompanied by live musicians. Bethany
Dellapolla, director and choreographer, explains, “Usually there are only three instruments, but
this year there are a whopping seven, with incredibly talented Pierson High School musicians
also joining our regularly hired professionals!”
For the middle school actors, a live musical performance has meant learning both the exciting
and challenging aspects of syncing choreography and singing from pre-recorded rehearsals to
live music. Eighth grader Riley Simmons, who will play Willy Wonka, said, “I actually prefer
working with a live musician. They have the ability to change the key of the music to what best
suits your voice, and since things happen in a live performance, having someone that can be
flexible with the pacing of music is always a big help.”
While some challenges can still arise, Jia Russo, an eighth grader who plays Violet Beauregarde,
said, “Even though it is a challenge for some, every year everyone pushes through the
challenges, and it always becomes a big success!”
Beyond the dazzling performances, students mention the key themes that audiences can expect in
“Willy Wonka,” from honesty and kindness to the consequences of bad behavior. Eighth grade
student Gabby Hugo, who plays Mr. Bucket, said, “One of the many themes the ‘Willy Wonka’
play is trying to share with its audience is no matter one’s social status you should always think
positive because being yourself and not being entitled will get you far in life.”
For the Jan. 24-26 performances, audiences will also see the hard work of the middle school
students fully supported by their Pierson High School peers. Specifically, Pierson High School

students Shoshana Sobey and Daniella Andrango have taken on the roles of assistant director and
assistant choreographer.
“Seeing them work together and take on a leadership role has been really rewarding to see,” said
Dellapolla. “They are so helpful and supportive of the cast and want the show to be the best it
can be. Big thank you to Shoshana Sobey (assistant director and assistant choreographer), and
Daniella Andrango (assistant director).”
According to the cast, with its blend of humor, catchy tunes and heartwarming moments, “Willy
Wonka” is shaping up to be a must-see production. “I'm very excited for the audience to hear all
of the jokes,” said Tremblay. “We've been working very hard in rehearsals to get all of the
punchlines to hit, and when somebody laughs at your joke in rehearsal it's a great feeling. So, we
are really looking forward to hearing that from a bigger audience.”
For the past few years, the middle schoolers have taken on junior productions, but this year the
students are rehearsing the full production of “Willy Wonka.” “With more material, the level of
preparation had to increase, and it's been great seeing them all rise to that challenge,” said
Bellapolla. “I'm incredibly proud of all they are accomplishing – they are working so hard, and I
know they will bring so much joy to their audiences!”
In preparation for the performance, Russo adds, “If you are a member of the audience, get ready
to fly out of your chairs by an insanely mysterious, whimsical and thrilling story about an odd
man named Willy Wonka.”