By SUE SUCHYTA
A chocolate fantasy and an edgy rock musical will take to local stages this summer as casts were announced for “Willy Wonka Junior” at the Players Guild of Dearborn and “Rent” at the Southgate Community Players’ Corner Playhouse.

CHOCOLATE DREAMS
The Guildlings, the youth arm of the Players Guild of Dearborn will present, “Willy Wonka Junior” July 20 to 22 and 27 to 29 at the theater, at 21730 Madison, southwest of the intersection of Monroe and Outer Drive in Dearborn.

The musical, based on the Roald Dahl book “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and the subsequent film “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” features lyrics and music by Leslie Bricusse and Anthony Newley.

The score features the familiar songs, “The Candy Man,” “Pure Imagination,” “Oompa Loompa” and “I Want It Now.”

Valerie Haas of Inkster will direct the show, with musical direction by Carmelle Atkins of Canton, choreography by Christie Schauder of Dearborn and co-produced by Greg Viscomi of Dearborn and Tim Carney of Livonia. Dianne Kaplan of Dearborn will chair costumes.

Haas said the show will have some fun choreography elements, such as a big “Candyman” number, and another with the younger children as squirrels in the nut room. She said both numbers will use lots of children in many different ways.

“We’re trying to make it as fun as possible and using those fantastical elements,” Haas said. “Roald Dahl was a genius when it came to having kids portrayed as not just ‘people in waiting,’ – like until they grow up they don’t do much or think much.The children in Roald Dahl stories are so much (more).”

Haas said she was pleased to see so many young actors return from last summer’s Guildling production, as well as many more newcomers auditioning than she has ever seen before.

“I think that’s really great that we’re getting new people into the Guild — not just the kids, but their parents as well,” Haas said. “And that’s really what we’re trying to do here, is connect with the community and to build future theater-goers. Not just performers, which is great, too, but theater-goers who will come to see theater, appreciate theater, and understand theater because they have done theater as children, and that’s our main goal.”

Nathaniel Booth, 16, of Dearborn, and a sophomore at Edsel Ford High School, will play Willy Wonka, a role that he said suits his zany personality.

He said he is looking forward to working with the young children who play the Oompa Loompas.

“I love little kids,” Booth said. “They’re so fun. They’re so full of energy and they can make people laugh and not even try, because they don’t know they’re trying … they’re just very free and moving.”

Charlie Bucket will be played by Dearborn resident Peter Moore, 10, a student at Divine Child Elementary School. He said he was shocked when he heard he had been cast as Charlie, because he thought the biggest part he might get would be Mike Teavee.

He said he thinks he’ll have the most fun as Charlie working with all of the other actors.

He plans to encourage his friends to attend the show by telling them how entertaining the show is to see.

“I think it will just be a thriller,” Moore said. “It’s one of those shows that is always fun to come to … it’s a fun show.”

The cast includes Dearborn residents Kevin Talanges, 17, as the Candy Man; Emma Scott, 13, as Mrs. Bucket; and Spencer Venis, 15, as Mr. Bucket.

Other Dearborn cast members include Lucas Boudreau, 13, as Grandpa George; Michael Suchyta, 16, as Grandpa Joe; Kayla Katona, 12, as Matilda; Lia Bertucci, 13, as Mrs. Gloop; Henry Bierman, 13, as Mr. Salt; Maddie Kaplan, 13, as Violet Beauregarde; Maria Viscomi, 13, as Mrs. Beauregarde; and Lia Umlauf, 14, as Mrs. Teavee.

Other featured cast members include Dearborn Heights resident Omar Alami, 13, as Phineous Trout; Lincoln Park resident Hailey Terry, 15, as Grandma Josephina; Amanda Berger, 16, of Livonia as Grandma Georgina; Inkster resident Ian Haas, 12, as Mike Teavee; Canton residents Nick Atkins, 10, as James and Joe Atkins, 10, as Augustus Gloop; and Oxford resident Jade Reynolds, 13, as Veruca Salt.

The Candy Man kids will be played by Dearborn residents Grace Doverspike, 11, Nathaniel Hermen, 9, John Oatney, 11, Garrett Hermen, 12, Kayla Katona, 12, Macenzie Landon, 10, Scout Greimel, 12, Abigail Burke, 12, Anna Veritek, 10, and Erin Wright, 13; Rhiannon Flores, 12, of Dearborn Heights; Alyssa Tocco, 13, of Taylor; Madison Shroka, 10, of Brownstown; Maggie King, 14, of Warren; Kortney Harris, 13, of Westland; Lucy Rhoades and Freda Monroe.

The Oompa Loompas will be played by Dearborn residents Adriana Viscomi, 9, Ava Evenhouse, 9, Lily Kanclerz, 10, Gavin Deckert, 9, Angel Krawzyk, 10, Nathaniel Hermen, 9, Quinn Brick, 11, Peter Oatney, 9, John Oatney, 11, Anna Veritek, 10, Sophie Majetic, 10, Molly Boudreau,10, Garrett Hermen, 12, Stella Doverspike, 9, Grace Doverspike, 11, Liliana Greimel, 9, Scout Greimel, 12, Grace Bertucci, 11 and Macenzie Landon, 10; Taylor resident Xavier Krause, 10; Inkster resident Cole Haas, 10; Canton resident Nick Adkins, 10; Brownstown resident Madison Schroka, 10; and Northville resident Ashlyn Doner, 10.

The squirrels will be played by Dearborn residents Jessica Koehler, 6, Allison Koehler, 8, Maya Liljegren, 8, Aarin Krawczyk, 8, Alexandra Slanec, 8, Leo Varitek, 8, Kate Varitec, 6, Ella Champoux, 8, Chloe Doverspike, 6, Megan Gencarelli, 7, Jillian Gencarelli, 7, and Christina Bertucci, 7; Dearborn Heights residents Joey Campbell, 7, and Ella Cambell, 8; Allen Park resident Jaclyn Sayger, 6; Taylor resident Elijah Krause, 8; Alexandra Schade, 7, of Garden City; and Livonia resident Natalie Wilson, 8.

The cooks are played by Michael Nelson, 15, of Dearborn; Hailey Terry, 15, of Lincoln Park; Maria Lazzarino, 14 of Westland; Amanda Berger, 16, of Livonia; and Gabby Nail, 12, of Oxford.

ROCK ’N’ ROLL NIGHTS
Southgate Community Players announced the cast of “Rent” last week. Chris Rollet of Southgate will direct and choreograph the show, with vocal direction by Sarah Leonard of Southgate and orchestral music direction by Karlene Szekely of Woodhaven.

The show will be performed at 8 p.m. July 13, 14, 20 and 21 at the Corner Playhouse at 12671 Dix Toledo Road in Southgate.

For more information, go to www.scponstage.com.

The edgy rock musical won the Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 1996, as well as four of the ten Tony Awards for which it was nominated: best musical, best book of a musical and best original score, with the Tony for best performance by a featured actor in a musical going to Wilson Jermaine Heredia for his performance of Angel Dumott Schunard.

“Rent,” which is based on Giacomo Puccini’s opera “La boheme,” follows a group of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive and be creative in New York City’s Lower East Side while living under the shadow and constant worry of HIV and AIDS.

The cast includes Rian McDonald, 27, of Southgate as Roger; Amy Bos, 29, of Detroit as Maureen; and Ypsilanti residents Andy Burt, 31, as Mark, and Holly Knick, 22, as Mimi.

Joann will be played by Lara Keathley, 31, of Southgate, with Lucas Ramon, 18, of Dearborn as Angel. Joseph Williams, 20, of Taylor will play Benny and Nick Rapson, 22, of Canton will play Collins.

The ensemble includes Allen Park residents Alexis Mosley, 21, Josh Beurer, 23, and- Josh LaPeer, 20; Lincoln Park resident Kelly Klug, 35; Southgate residents Carl Chigliazza, 22 and Megan Robertson, 27; Wyandotte residents Annie Jacobs, 20 and Patrick Reed, 25; Brownstown resident Erin Schmidt, 41; and Woodhaven residents Jami Mullins, 32 and Nick Mullins, 27.

By Tony Rizzo
HOLLYWOOD — It was bound to happen. The success of “The Artist” has prompted Paramount Pictures to restore “Wings,” the first best-picture Oscar winner and the only other silent film to win best picture. Paramount will partner with Cinemark to test market it to see if silent films can really come back. Of course, 85 years ago there wasn’t a rating system in place. The film was submitted for a rating and received a PG-13 because of its “war violence.” If the demand is there, they WILL show it!
* * *
In a continuing effort to create a new “Wizard of Oz,” Summertime Entertainment will release the animated “Dorothy of Oz” in 2013, in IMAX and 3D, with a screenplay by L. Frank Baum’s great-grandson, Roger S. Baum. The story takes place the next day and has the voices of “Glee’s” Lea Michele (Dorothy), Dan Aykroyd (The Scarecrow), Kelsey Grammer (The Tin Man), Jim Belushi (The Cowardly Lion) and Bernadette Peters (Glinda the Good Witch). In addition, there are new characters such as China Princess, voiced by “Smash’s” Megan Hilty; Marshal Mallow by Hugh Darcy; Wiser the Owl by Oliver Platt; Tugg by “Star Trek” Captain Picard, Patrick Stewart; and the villain of the piece, The Jester, by Martin Short. With a cast like that, it could be magic time for the kid in all of us.
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More than a year ago, “The Oprah Winfrey Show” had a “Sound of Music” reunion, and we told you the seven actors who played Von Trapp children were putting together a coffee-table photo book. “The Sound of Music Family Scrapbook” is now available in most bookstores and at Amazon.com
* * *
Ever wondered what happened to Taylor Hicks after he won “American Idol” in 2006 and released his self-titled CD later that same year? Well, he starred in a revival of “Grease” on Broadway in 2008 and released a second CD, “The Distance,” in 2009. Then in May 2011, he opened ORE Drink and Dine Restaurant in Birmingham, Ala., and in June, headlined a concert that raised $2.2 million for the recovery of tornado victims in his home state.

Hicks was in New Orleans the night before Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005 and was given a free airline-ticket voucher when his flight was canceled. He used the voucher to fly to Las Vegas, where the then-29-year-old auditioned for “Idol.” He now is set for a return engagement for eight weeks at Bally’s Hotel and Casino on the Vegas strip, beginning June 26. He’s the first “Idol” winner to headline Las Vegas. Taylor is hoping he can turn Vegas into a “Hick” town and extend his run!

Send letters to Tony Rizzo’s Hollywood, 8306 Wilshire Blvd., No. 362, Beverly Hills, CA 90211.

© 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.

Answers
1. 12 years
2. Bird
3. Stabbed with a bayonet while trying to escape custody
4. Angel Falls (Venezuela) is 3,212 feet high.
6. Excalibur
7. Andrew Wyeth
8. Twice
9. “The Mystery of Edwin Drood”
10. Radius

© 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.

By Dana Block
THE BOLD AND THE BEAUTIFUL
Stephanie informed Brooke that her daughter would not be walking down the aisle anytime soon. Amber’s plan appeared to be working as Caroline shunned Rick at work. Brooke confronted Liam about why he destroyed the annulment papers. Amber swooped in to declare her love to Rick after he was rejected by Caroline. Thomas confessed to Ridge how Caroline was his fashion muse. Hope interrupted Amber’s seduction of Rick. Caroline appeared to be hiding a secret about her family. Bill crashed Karen’s dinner party. Brooke’s disdain for Amber was further solidified after finding out about her latest scheme. Katie returned home with big news for Bill. Wait to See: Steffy gives Liam an ultimatum. Bill makes Deacon an offer he can’t refuse.

DAYS OF OUR LIVES
Even though he no longer had any blood ties to the DiMeras, EJ was determined to take over the family empire. Roman asked Rafe to respect that Carrie was a married woman. Lexie was thrilled to learn that Cameron once worked with autistic children. Lucas told Will that he was fine with him being gay. Later, Lucas advised Sami to fix her relationship with their son or she would lose him forever. EJ promised Nicole that he would always be in her life now that she was carrying his child. Celeste warned Cameron that she had a bad premonition about Abigail. Lexie’s friends and family transformed the town square into a replica of Paris. Stefano was arrested for trying to make an illegal arms deal. Wait to See: Stefano has the CIA on his side. Lexie collapses.

GENERAL HOSPITAL
Sam found comfort from McBain, while Jason turned to Elizabeth for support. Carly and Tea were like oil and water. Heather was jealous of the time that Luke and Anna were spending together. Olivia found the timing of Maggie’s death rather disturbing. Michael assured his father that he had no problem testifying against Starr. Johnny was determined to win back Carly. Spinelli announced the identity of Lisa’s killer in court. Kate prepared to confront Connie with the help of her psychiatrist. Starr was arraigned for attempted murder. Wait to See: Alexis receives a surprise visitor. Edward and Monica receive some unsettling news.

THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS
Nikki told Jack that she would consider his marriage proposal, leading Victor to walk away in disgust. Ashley told Tucker that it was over after he strayed yet again. Paul worried that Ricky was just like Isabella. Chelsea turned down Victor’s multimillion-dollar bribe to leave town. Billy encouraged a paralyzed Jack to believe in himself after he swore he sensed feeling in his toes. Harmony tried to drive Neil away by telling him that she slept with Tucker. Chelsea told Victoria that she couldn’t be bought off and that she wanted to be a part of her baby’s life. Victor turned to Sharon for comfort after his heartbreak over Nikki. Wait to See: Ricky seeks out Danny Romalotti. Sofia makes a decision about her marriage.

© 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.

Staging will take place from 10 a.m. to noon at Cabela’s in Dundee, 110 Cabela Blvd. East, and the ride will begin at noon with a police escort to Biker Bob’s Harley-Davidson Motown, 14100 Telegraph, Taylor.

The $25 registration fee includes food donated by Famous Dave’s. In addition, C-Mac will provide water for the riders. There is no fee for spectators, who will be able to buy Famous Dave’s food for $10 at the Taylor location.

In addition, entertainment will provided, and raffle tickets ($10) will be sold for a Harley-Davidson Street Glide.

Volunteers from Famous Dave’s, Kohl’s PNC Bank and Best Buy will assist at the event. For more information, call the Penrickton Center at 734-946-7500.

Kurt Sebaly, executive director of the center, said that proceeds from the event, which draws approximately 3,000 people, will help fund a dance-movement therapy program for Penrickton children. The center receives no government funds and is supported entirely by private donations, he said.

225 attend fund-raiser
While an accordionist played Italian music in the background, some 225 people sampled dozens of Italian specialties at the annual “Taste of Italy,” presented by the Downriver Italian-American Club at the organization’s headquarters in Wyandotte.

The event, a benefit for the Penrickton Center in Taylor, raised approximately $5,000, according to Tony Lumia, co-chairman of the fund-raiser with his wife, Miriam.

Assisting the Lumias at the event were Sam and Grace Pizzo, Fred and Stella Marzano, Mary Cottone and Charlie and Leslie Lupo.

Among the many mouth-watering samples provided by Downriver and Dearborn eateries and Discount Drinks were the to-die-for Warm Berry Cake served by Bravo Cucina Italiano; Andiamo’s creamy polenta; and the Fettuccini Alfredo offered by Fratello’s Restaurant of Trenton

Social slated for opening
The Downriver Council for the Arts has planned an ice-cream social as the opening reception for its annual Members’ Show at the Wyandotte Arts Center, 81 Chestnut.

There is no charge for the reception, scheduled for 6 to 8 p.m. June 8. Various flavors of ice cream and several toppings will be served, along with ice cream floats.

Any artist who is a current DCA member, or would like to become one, is invited to show one work in any media or size, said Tammy Trudelle, the council’s executive director.

The deadline for entries is 5 p.m. June 1. The exhibit will continue through July 14. Artwork will not be accepted without a completed entry form and fee payment, Trudelle said.

Entry forms listing fees and additional details are available on the DCA website, www.downriverarts.org. For more information, call, 734-720-0671.

Coming up . . .
June 8 — Southern Great Lakes Symphony’s first Beer & Wine Throwdown; 7 to 10 p.m. at the Riverview Community Center, 14260 Sibley; beer and wine sampling, small-plate portions of food, raffle, gourmet baskets, auction, Red Wings memorabilia; $30 per person; $55 per couple: for reservations, call 734-246-2890.

June 8-10 — Thirtieth annual 99.5 WYCD Downtown Hoedown, on the grounds surrounding Comerica Park; featuring 40 bands and three stages; mega stars including Miranda Lambert, Montgomery Gentry, Dierks Bentley and Chris Young; ticketed event for the first time; a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Beaumont Health System’s Healthy Heart Check student heart-screening program; for more information, go to wycd.radio.com/shows/wycd-downtown-hoedown.

ARIES (March 21 to April 19) A stubborn refusal to go ahead on a project mystifies colleagues who expected more flexibility. But once you explain your position, they’ll understand and even applaud you.

TAURUS (April 20 to May 20) A relationship seems to be stuck in the same place. Now it’s up to you, dear Bovine, to decide how far you want it to go and how intense you want it to be. Choose well and choose soon.

GEMINI (May 21 to June 20) A relationship progresses more slowly than you would prefer. Best advice: Insist on a frank and open discussion. What is learned could change minds and, maybe, hearts.

CANCER (June 21 to July 22) It’s all right to be grateful to a workplace colleague who has done you a good turn. But gratitude shouldn’t be a life-long obligation. The time to break this cycle is now.

LEO (July 23 to August 22) It’s going to be especially nice to be the King of the Zodiac at this time. A recent money squeeze eases. Plans start to work out, and new friends enter Your Majesty’s domain.

VIRGO (August 23 to September 22) Before you make a commitment on any level (personal, professional, legal), get all the facts. There might be hidden problems that could cause trouble later on.

LIBRA (September 23 to October 22) Personal relationships improve. Professional prospects also brighten. A job offer could come through by month’s end. An old friend seeks to make contact.

SCORPIO (October 23 to November 21) Your senses detect that something is not quite right about a matter involving a workplace colleague. Best advice: Follow your keen instincts and don’t get involved.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22 to December 21) A prospect
offers rewards, but it also demands that you assume a great deal of responsibility. Knowing you, you’re up to the challenge, so go for it, and good luck.

CAPRICORN (December 22 to January 19) A favor you did a long time ago is repaid, as a trusted colleague steps in to help you with a suddenly expanded workload. A family member has important news.

AQUARIUS (January 20 to February 18) A new job offer could require moving across the country. But before you let your doubts determine your decision, learn more about the potentials involved.

PISCES (February 19 to March 20) Your sense of fair play doesn’t allow you to rush to judgment about a friend who might have betrayed you. Good! Because all the facts are not yet in.

BORN THIS WEEK: You have a romantic nature that allows you to find the best in people. You would excel at poetry and drama.

© 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.

By Cindy Elavsky
Q: I can barely stand the wait — when will “Pretty Little Liars” be back? — Sissy R., via e-mail

A: The third season of the hit ABC Family series “Pretty Little Liars” will be back and raring to go on Tuesday, June 5, at 8 p.m. The series picks up with Aria, Emily, Spencer and Hanna dealing with the fact that Mona is the mysterious “A” who’s been blackmailing them. While the character died in the book series on which the TV series is based, actress Janel Parrish, who plays Mona, has been upgraded to a series regular and will play a bigger role in the upcoming season. However, just because Mona’s been outed as “A,” it doesn’t mean she murdered Allison — that culprit is still on the loose.
* * *
Q: My family has been waiting anxiously for the season-three episodes of the “Downton Abbey” series to be aired. Our relatives in Europe have already seen the latest continuing episodes of the popular British series. Can you tell us when we can expect season-three episodes to start here in the U.S.? — Tom S., Hartford County, Conn.

A: Your European relatives might be confusing season two with season three, as season three is still in production. While Europe will get to see the third season before us — it’s scheduled to air on ITV in England in September, and here in America on PBS in January 2013 — I can guarantee you that, as of now, they haven’t seen any more than you have.
* * *
Q: I’m a big fan of Scott Aukerman, and I especially love his podcast, “Comedy Bang! Bang!” I heard that it is going to become a TV series. Is that true? — Jonathan V., via e-mail

A: You heard right! Writer/comedian Scott Aukerman — who is best known for his work with “Mr. Show with Bob and David” and for co-creating “Between Two Ferns with Zach Galifianakis” — will indeed be bringing his hilarious podcast to the small screen. IFC has picked up “Comedy Bang! Bang!” which premieres Friday, June 8, at 10 p.m.

To gear up for the show — which will feature such big-name stars as Zach Galifianakis, Amy Poehler, Seth Rogan and Elizabeth Banks — go to ifc.com/fix/2012/05/reggie-watts-makes-music to see Jon Hamm show off his freestyle skills on an improvised jam about the classic TV show “Taxi.” And check the website often, as new webisodes will air throughout the season.
* * *
Q: In my opinion, the fourth season of “Southland” was the best yet. Please tell me it’s been renewed for another season! — Matt F., Sacramento, Calif.

A: It would seem that the powers that be at TNT agree with your assessment of “Southland,” as they have renewed the hit cop series for a 10-episode fifth season, which is scheduled to begin airing in February 2013. As the date gets closer, I’ll be sure to fill my readers in on all the details.

Write to Cindy at King Features Weekly Service, P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, FL 32853-6475; or e-mail her at letters@cindyelavsky.com.

© 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.

PICKS OF THE WEEK
“The Woman in Black” (PG-13) — In a misty corner of England, a grieving man must sort through paperwork in clearly the most haunted house in the village. This is the kind of chiller that takes its time, relies on tried-and-true techniques, and builds an atmosphere of fear and uncertainty. Lawyer Arthur Kipps (Daniel Radcliffe) must sort through the estate of a small town’s recently deceased crazy lady. When Arthur starts seeing a woman in black and hearing voices, the villagers have nothing to say to him.

This is Radcliffe’s first leading role without a magic wand, and he does well enough to prove that he can stay alive post-Potter. He pulls it off as the grief and anxiety-stricken man trapped in a 1960s-style scary movie.

“This Means War” (PG-13) — Chris Pine and Tom Hardy play two CIA agents who are super-cool, deadly, handsome and super best bros for life. When they both fall for Reese Witherspoon, they decide to put their invaluable skills to work sabotaging each other’s dates. It’s a silly plot pushed to its most-Hollywood extent — lowbrow humor and action sequences in a romantic comedy that’s light on the romance.

If you can’t handle the cheese-factor in the film, it can cause physical discomfort with its lack of chemistry and low-hanging quips. However, if you have an itch to see a movie that moves along at a good pace and features secret agents shooting each other in the groin with air rifles, “This Means War” could save the evening.

“Red Tails” (PG-13) — The Tuskegee Airmen have a proud place in American history, and “Red Tails” tells the story like it was written for a B-movie. The Airmen became the first African-American pilots in U.S. armed forces during World War II, and one of the most decorated units of the war. Somehow, this comes across as boring and generic in “Red Tails,” a movie so loaded with corny speeches that you would think it was running for student body president.

“The Secret World of Arrietty” (G) — This Japanese animated feature is the kind of family entertainment you wish you could have known as a rugrat. Arrietty is a 14-year-old girl, and one of a secret race of tiny people who live in the cracks and recesses of the human world. Arrietty gets discovered by Shawn, a normal-size human boy, and a secret friendship forms. The animation is top-notch. The characters, colors, action scenes — all of it just looks amazing. The film is a beautiful, gentle story with enough splendor and juice to keep you pulled in.

TV RELEASES
“Sherlock: Season Two”
“Rizzoli & Isles: The Complete Second Season”
“The River: The Complete First Season”
“S.W.A.T. The Final Season”
“Route 66: The Complete Series”

© 2012 King Features Synd., Inc.