This new musical adaptation of Roald Dahl's book will begin performances at the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane, as previously reported, May 18, 2013, prior to an official opening in June. It will be directed by Sam Mendes, with a book by David Greig and new songs from Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.

According to a story in the UK's Daily Mail, Hodge had been toying with the possibility of portraying showman P. T. Barnum in a projected UK revival of the musical Barnum, but opted instead for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The story also reports that Mendes has told associates he wanted a "proper actor" for the role of Wonka, and not just a name.

Hodge will follow in the footsteps of Gene Wilder and Johnny Depp, who have played the role of the sweet-maker in the two film versions of the novel.

Tickets for Charlie and the Chocolate Factory will go on sale in October; sign up for news at www.CharlieandtheChocolateFactory.co.uk.