There were plenty of laughs, colourful costumes, and, of course, chocolate, as Cedarwood School staff stepped into the spotlight to perform Charlie and the Chocolate Factory in a production that delighted audiences while raising funds for the school.

Instead of teaching lessons, staff members spent months learning lines, rehearsing dance routines, designing costumes, and building props, all to bring the much-loved story to life. Play director David Thomson said the production began with a script written by former staff member Janku Potgieter. When he left the school, Thomson took over the project, with Elsie Dippenaar helping to revise the script. “We all loved the idea of taking a beloved story and giving it a Cedarwood twist, and really, who doesn’t love chocolate? It felt like the perfect story to make our own.”

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Every member of staff played a part, whether behind the scenes or under the stage lights, helping to make the fundraiser a success. “This wasn’t just a performance; it was a fundraiser for the school, and the entire staff contributed in some way, whether that was ticket sales, costume design, stage and prop design, or acting and dancing.

“It really was a team effort from top to bottom, and that spirit of everyone pitching in for the good of the school is very much who we are at Cedarwood School.”

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Preparing the show wasn’t always easy. Fitting rehearsals around the school day meant long evenings and a demanding schedule, but Thomson said seeing the finished production made every moment worthwhile. “Working so closely with colleagues over the months we prepared meant we did hit a few hiccups along the way, and it was a genuinely tough rehearsal schedule, but the proof is in the pudding. The show turned out brilliantly, and every performance was a highlight.”

One of the most rewarding parts of the experience was seeing learners’ reactions as they watched their teachers take on completely different roles. “I think having staff involved made it extra special for the kids. To see their teachers in such a different space, doing something completely outside the classroom.”

The performances were warmly received by learners, parents, and board members, who praised the cast’s efforts and enthusiasm. “The response from the community was so special. Our pupils were amazing with their feedback, and parents and board members were very complimentary. It made the whole process – the late nights, the rehearsals, all of it – completely worthwhile.”

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