Zion Opera Workshop will hold open auditions for the musical “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” at 1 and 6 p.m. Thursday in the dining room of Zion UCC, Second and Iron streets, Lehighton.

The new production for ZOW offers a variety of roles, from lead to supporting, and is open to all high school students (ninth grade and up) as well as adults.

There are 17 named roles and numerous chorus/dancing opportunities. Even supporting characters have engaging scenes, making the musical a fun experience for all involved.

Casting details

• A child in fourth grade or higher may be considered for the role of Charlie.

• While there are other children’s characters in the show, they will be portrayed by young adults for comedic effect.

• The role of Charlie is open to both boys and girls, but the character will be portrayed as a boy. Only one child will be selected for the role.

• Zion Opera Workshop, Carbon County’s oldest continually running theater group since 1970, is known for producing Broadway-style shows with a live orchestra. There is no charge to join, and all participants will receive coaching in acting, dancing and singing.

Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved story, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” has been re-imagined for the stage with a new book and score by David Greig, Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.

The musical follows Charlie Bucket, a poor boy who wins a Golden Ticket to Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory.

Along with the other ticket winners — Veruca Salt, Violet Beauregarde, Mike Teavee and Augustus Gloop — Charlie explores the wonders and dangers of the factory. But as the other children fall victim to their own greed, Charlie’s humble nature earns him a life-changing reward from Mr. Wonka.

For more information and to access the audition packet, visit facebook.com/zionoperaworkshop and check out the event page.

The show is directed by Bradly R. Cressley, artistic and music director of Zion Opera Workshop.