The Dolores Theater Group was rehearsing for a complex Shakespeare play, then the Florida school shooting happened.

“It was a heavy time, so the students decided on something lighter and went with ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,’” said director Pete Swingle.

The performance will run April 27 at 7 p.m. and April 28 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. in the Dolores high school auditorium.

“We’re involving more of the school with actors from elementary, middle school and high school classes participating,” Swingle said.

Sixth-grade actor Darwin Cooper is playing Charlie Bucket with the Golden Ticket, and loves the “imaginative” qualities of the play.

“It’s creative and a lot of fun,” he said. “I’m so glad to be working with these people.”

This is the last hurrah for the senior actors who have performed together on many previous plays.

“Expect a heartfelt performance,” says perpetually energetic Sarah Cochrane, a senior playing the Willie Wonka lead. “The play is full of whimsy, humor, and is about letting your creative side run loose.”

A group of elementary students will be performing the famous Oompa Loompa characters, “a perfect role” for little kids, Swingle said.

“The play gives the gift of laughter, and reminds us if we dream enough, anything can happen,” he said.