NE North Dakota News

The Empire Theatre Company in Grand Forks is presenting "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical" as its season opener at the Empire Arts Center from October 2 to October 11. The production features several individuals affiliated with the University of North Dakota (UND).

Daniel Bartholomay, an assistant professor of sociology at UND and recipient of a Midwest Sociological Society Early Career Scholar Award, plays Willy Wonka. Bartholomay has previous stage experience, including a role in Firehall Theatre’s "Cabaret" earlier this year.

Other members of the UND community are also involved. Mark Diers, who works for the North Dakota University System IT department, takes on the role of Grandpa Joe. Matt Stavens, a graduate of UND’s theatre program, and Rachel Willey, a current undergraduate student, appear as characters visiting Wonka’s factory.

Ryan King, who holds two music degrees from UND, directs both staging and music for the show. Mare Thompson is responsible for costume design, while Tyler Smith manages sound. Scenic painting is provided by Rebecca Sefcovic Uglem, an alumna of UND’s Art Department. The set was constructed with assistance from psychology professor J.P. Legerski.

Kathleen Coudle-King, managing artistic director of Empire Theatre Company and associate teaching professor of English at UND, said: “Local theatre companies in Grand Forks are so fortunate to tap into the talent pool at UND.”

She added: “Graduates of UND’s theatre program are frequently involved, but we also benefit from faculty, staff, and students in other disciplines who share their creativity on stage and behind the curtain.”