TIME FOR SOME CHOCOLATE — The Sycamore Youth Center’s drama program, featuring 50 young actors ages 5 to 12, will be performing “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday at the center, located at 301 N. Fourth St. in Steubenville. The free event is open to the public. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — A world of pure imagination will soon come to life on the stage of the Sycamore Youth Center. The nonprofit’s drama program has been rehearsing since January to bring the community the upcoming performance of “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory.”

The iconic musical based on Roald Dahl’s classic story, will feature a cast of 50 young actors ages 5 through 12. Performances have been set for 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday at the center, located at 301 N. Fourth St. in Steubenville. Directed by Virginia Carpenter, the production promises “a whimsical and heartwarming journey through Willy Wonka’s magical chocolate factory — complete with colorful characters, toe-tapping songs and powerful lessons on kindness, humility and imagination.”

Bobbyjon Bauman, executive director of the Sycamore Youth Center, expressed his excitement about the show, as well as the students’ dedication.

“I’m so proud of the incredible progress these young people have made over the past several months,” Bauman stated. “Their hard work and passion shine through, and we would love to see the entire community come out and support them.”

The family-friendly event for all ages is free of charge and open to the public.

For information, visit sycamorecenter.com or call (740) 409-2986.