General News
1 July, 2026
A world of pure imagination comes alive at St Brigid's College
AFTER a hiatus from school productions, St Brigid’s College is set to return to the stage in late July, inviting Wimmera audiences into a world of pure imagination with its production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
With more than 55 students involved across the cast and crew, the production aims to provide opportunities for students with a wide selection of interests and talents, both on stage and behind the scenes.
Making it one of the largest collaborative projects undertaken this year at St Brigid’s College.
Executive Producer and Director, Vicki Thomas, said Charlie and the Chocolate Factory was the ideal choice for the school’s return to the stage.
“It’s a story that has captured the hearts of generations through its imagination, humour, and heart.”
“We wanted a production that would appeal to audiences of all ages while also providing new opportunities for our students,” she said.
For the set designers, the biggest challenge has been recreating the whimsical and magical world of Willy Wonka’s factory on stage.
“The story takes audiences through a series of extraordinary rooms and larger-than-life moments, so our production team has had to think creatively about how to produce exciting scenes that will capture our audiences.” Mrs Thomas said.
Behind the scenes, the production has become a community project, with staff, students, families, and volunteers contributing countless hours to designing and creating many of the show’s sets and props.
With elaborate set pieces including the iconic glass elevator and oversized sweets, the production team hopes to immerse audiences in the magical journey through Wonka’s chocolate factory.
“We have repurposed materials wherever possible,” she said.
“Costumes have been sourced, adapted, and created to reflect the unique personalities of characters while capturing the colourful and whimsical spirit of the show.”
Beyond the stage, Mrs Thomas said the production provides students with valuable opportunities to develop teamwork, confidence, communication skills, and creativity.
“The real value lies in the growth that occurs throughout the rehearsal process,” she said.
“These are skills and experiences that stay with students long after the curtain falls.”
What makes Vicki the proudest is the way the students have embraced the rehearsal process and supported one another.
“Producing a musical of this scale requires commitment, perseverance, and teamwork,” she said.
“Our students have risen to every challenge.”
For the wider school community, watching the students grow in confidence while helping to rebuild a vibrant performing arts culture has been the most rewarding.
Mrs Thomas said the show is packed with fun, laughter, and memorable songs, making it a wonderful and unmissable experience for the whole family.
Tickets are available for purchase through the Horsham Town Hall website, horshamtownhall.com.au/charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory.