Sam Mendes to make musical version of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory

Oscar-winning film-maker Sam Mendes, creator of American Beauty is turning to the stage with a new musical version of Charlie And The Chocolate Factory.

The production, which will open at the London Palladium next June, includes new songs by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, who wrote the musical Hairspray.

Roald Dahl’s 1964 novel, which tells the story of Charlie Bucket’s visit to Willy Wonka’s mysterious sweet factory, has twice been made into a hit film.

The 1971 film starred Gene Wilder as the mysterious Mr Wonka, with Johnny Depp taking the role in the 2005 re-make.