STORY AND PHOTO BY KAREN BOSSICK

Delve into the timeless story of a world-famous Candy Man when St. Thomas Playhouse’s Company B Performing Arts Camp presents Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka Jr.”

Youngsters will present the show complete with the Oompa-Loompas at 2 p.m. today through Saturday, June 24, with an additional morning performance at 10 a.m. Friday, June 23, at Community School Theater in Sun Valley.

The show revolves around the elusive secretive chocolatier Willy Wonka, who has kept close guard on his chocolate making secrets since one of his recipes was stolen and sold to competitors. But now Mr. Wonka is looking to retire so he announces a contest where five lucky children can tour his factory and get a lifetime supply of chocolate if they find a golden ticket hidden in the Wonka Bars.

His real mission, of course, is to find a successor among the five children.

Among the lucky five is Charlie Bucket, whose family is struggling to make ends meet since his father lost his job at the toothpaste factory. Charlie chooses Grandpa Joe to accompany him on the tour and they soon find themselves in a dizzying array of fabulous rooms—each devoted to the creation of sweets and treats.

The play is a godsend for youngsters as they get to sing “The Burping Song,” “Chew It” and other songs that tickle their fancy.

Company B is a summer performing arts day camp for youngsters between the ages of 4 and 13. The kids have spent nearly two weeks learning the songs and dances to the movie, as well as coming up with some cool costumes and props.

The show is being directed by Megan Mahoney. Joel Bejot provides the music; Peter Burke, the choreography, and Alison Higdon, the art direction.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 18, available at the door or at www.stthomasplayhouse.org.