“Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” adapted by Richard George, opened Wednesday to a preview audience at the Butler Little Theatre. Aside from the threat of melted chocolate, the only dampener in the play was the humidity.

It was an amazing effort by the band of actors under the direction of Shannon Donovan. The sets were imaginative, and the special effects creative. Donovan put a unique spin on the Roald Dahl classic with interesting gambles in casting that seemed to pay off.

That started with the Oompa Loompas because they were sweet. The cotton-candy-haired little quartet was delightful as they twirled and spun and pontificated on the plight of each tour guest. Costumed in pink and white, the critters couldn't have been more fun or cute and surprisingly sassy.

Congrats to Rowan Smith, Lucas Rivera, Emma Kish and Isaac Boring for putting the “oomph” in the Oompa Loompas.

The energetic and adorable Colten Vietmeier did an amazing job with his role as Charlie Bucket. His memorization was spot on, and the enthusiastic delivery was entertaining and enjoyable to see.

His grandpa was played by Montana Simpson, and they were quite a pair. Simpson with few lines conveyed the protector and partner of Charlie. They truly seemed enthralled with the tour and with Wonka himself … or herself?

Carrie Peters carried the role of Willy Wonka well. She rose to the challenge of creating a distinctive Wonka, but one who is recognizable as the iconic character that he is. She was wildly unpredictable with splendid and, at times, comical delivery.

The children and parents were played quite capably, and were recognizable from the book and the movie. Mike Teavee's mother was somewhat of a surprise, and I'll leave that there for you.

Teavee was played by the gangster-tough Owen Boring, who nailed the attitude and the swagger.

Lexie McCurdy was hilarious in the role of Violet Beauregarde. The loud, fast-talking elementary student did a commendable job from start to her demise as a blueberry. As did her equally annoying cohort Augustus Gloop played by Sam Miller, who gleefully put the ninny in nincompoop.

Little Naomi Eberle was the spoiled Veruca Salt with a spot on infuriating portrayal of a brat.

Sarah McAllister acted as a narrator of sorts and set the stage for the audience in a clear manner.

Equally compelling performances were offered up by Spencer Brackett, Emele Cammisa, Lynze Ball, Austin Cook, Tara Potter and Madison Kish.

Dress comfortably because there is no air conditioning.

WHAT: Butler Little Theatre Summer Youth Production’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”WHEN: 7:30 p.m. today to Saturday and 2:30 p.m. SundayWHERE: Butler Little Theatre, One Howard Street, ButlerTICKETS: $12 plus $2 per online ticket fee at www.butlergoup.org. Limited tickets are available at the door for $12.