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Pudong Campus: Into the Magic Factory— SHSID Students Join the Choir of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

November 17, 2025

This November, students from the SHSID Pudong Campus stepped into a world of wonder as they were invited to join the children’s choir in the Broadway Musical Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at Shanghai Culture Square, performing alongside professional cast members in a magical celebration of imagination and joy. 



1. A Musical Journey Begins: Workshops That Brought the Magic to Campus

Starting on September 23rd, the musical’s creative team visited the SHSID Pudong Campus to host a specially tailored choral workshop. Professional actors introduced the story, demonstrated vocal techniques, and guided the children through the dreamy world of the chocolate factory.





With guidance from teachers and performers, the children learned the iconic song Pure Imagination. They practiced pitch, rhythm, expression, and teamwork— each rehearsal bringing them closer to the magical gates of Willy Wonka’s factory.


Excitement sparkled in their eyes throughout the workshop. Every attempt, every note sung felt like discovering a golden ticket of their own— making wonder feel real and reachable.





2. From Audition to Selection: The Proud Journey of Becoming “Little Charlies”

During the audition stages, the children impressed the production team with their bright voices, steady rhythms, and natural stage presence. Each round of selection showcased not only their vocal skills but also their courage, confidence, and enthusiasm.


In the end, several children from the Pudong Campus were selected as part of the “100 Little Charlies” choir. It was an honor and a rare opportunity to collaborate with a professional musical theatre production.


3. Performing at Shanghai Culture Square: Dreams Shining on Stage

On November 14th, dressed in costume and filled with excitement, the children stepped onto the stage for a special recording session. They stood under the real theatre lights and contributed their voices to the recording of Pure Imagination.









As the music began, their voices flowed softly, sweet, clear, and filled with warmth. Their performance connected the emotional threads of the story and reminded the audience of the childlike wonder they once held.



For the children, this was more than a performance—it was their first experience standing at the center of a professional stage, immersed in lights, music, and applause. Their dedication made every moment shine.





4. More Than Applause: Growth Through Art

Through the workshops, rehearsals, and final performance, the children experienced meaningful artistic growth: they learned teamwork through blending their voices, developed emotional expression through singing, gained confidence by standing boldly in the spotlight, and deepened their appreciation for the craft of musical theatre. This immersive artistic journey will remain a cherished memory, reminding them that with imagination and kindness, every child can discover their own “golden ticket.”


(Written by Duoyi Jin

Pictures by Shanghai Culture Square & Pudong Campus Faculty Team

Reviewed by Mr. Wu Xiaodong, Shiyu Wu, Louie Parker)