Zion Opera Workshop presents “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” during the first weekend of March at the Smith Auditorium, located at Second and Iron streets. Performances are scheduled for Feb. 28, Feb. 29, and March 1, at 7:30 p.m., with a matinee at 2 p.m. on March 1.

The narrative follows young Charlie Bucket on his quest to secure a golden ticket for a tour of Willy Wonka’s exclusive chocolate factory. Eva Durigon, a veteran of both the workshop and junior productions, will portray Charlie Bucket. Durigon, who previously played Cinderella in the junior production and Marta in last year’s “Sound of Music,” will showcase her versatility by taking on the role of a boy.

Josh Hasak will make his debut with the group as Willy Wonka. Grandpa Joe, who joins Charlie on his visit to the chocolate factory, is portrayed by veteran Brandon Cressley. Laura Reichard, who starred in last year’s production of The Sound of Music, takes on the role of Mrs. Bucket, a mother who tirelessly works to support her son and his four bedridden grandparents. The cast of grandparents includes Grandpa George, played by Jim Diehl, who makes a return to workshop stage this year after a lengthy hiatus since his last appearance in 1987. Grandma Georgena is portrayed by Betsy Maholic, known for her comedic role as Grandmama in the workshop’s rendition of “The Addams Family Musical.” Grandma Josephine is played by Megan Sander, a workshop veteran who portrayed a nun in “The Sound of Music.”

Augustus Gloop is portrayed by Andrew Hrusovsky, who delivers a comically engaging performance. His mother, Mrs. Gloop is played by Lisa Snell-Kern, who portrayed Mother Superior in last year’s production.

Violet Beauregarde is brought to life by Tara Crow. Her father is portrayed by Mark Firtion, who has also taken on various prominent roles.

Veruca Salt is portrayed by Eliza Cressley, a long-standing member of ZOW, renowned for her notable performance as Morticia in the Addams Family. Her father, Mr. Salt, is depicted by Cole Hrusovsky, who has graced the ZOW stage on numerous occasions, including his memorable portrayal of Mal Beineke in the Addams Family.

Mike TeeVee is represented by Tim Arace, a student from Lehighton High School. The role of Mrs. TeeVee is taken on by Jessica Hasak, whose versatility is evident as she transitions from her previous role as the gentle Sister Margaretta.

Two reporters serve as key figures in the new musical. Jerry is played by Chris Ross, who made his debut last year, while the quirky female reporter, Cherry, is portrayed by Robin Grohotolski, who is participating in her first production this season.

Mrs. Green, a vendor of vegetables and later chocolates, is played by Jaimie Monahan, who made her debut last year in The Sound of Music.

Oompa-Loompas, dancing squirrels, gum-chomping divas, reporters, and townspeople are portrayed by seasoned actors Casi Reichard, Adam Reichard, Bethany Evans, Kate Newsted, Abbigail Ehrig, Claire Foeller, Lilly Andreas, Heather Brown, Bella Moyer, Carson Hauser, Katelyn Markell, and Lydia Hessinger, along with newcomer Mischa Smale, who joins the stage this year.

The Zion Opera Workshop is directed by Bradly R. Cressley, with technical direction provided by Pati and Duane Reichard. Deb Strausberger from TNT Dance is responsible for the choreography. Costume design is managed by Nancy Keiser, Pati Reichard, Martha Cox, and Casi Reichard. The rehearsal pianist, Michelle Stoudt, returns this year and is joined by Ruth Sheeran. Those interested in assisting with the production in roles such as stage crew, hair and makeup, lighting, or sound are encouraged to reach out to the director.

The production will feature a live orchestra. Tickets for the performance can be obtained from any cast member, at Carbon County Music and More located at the Lehighton Boys and Girls Band Hall, 197 N. 6th St. in Lehighton from 3:30-5 p.m. daily and Saturdays 9 a.m. to noon, or by calling the box office at 610-392-1810.