Saab Magalona’s son Vito attends ‘Chocolate Factory,’ meets Karylle, two Charlies 

Young fan’s love for “Chocolate Factory” leads to backstage meet, heartfelt letters, and a “chocolate high” theater debut.

Actress Saab Magalona recently treated her youngest son, Vito, to his first-ever musical theater experience, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” at The Theatre at Solaire, sharing moments from the outing in an Instagram gallery.

Magalona recalled that after watching the film adaptation, Vito became deeply invested in the story. He read the book several times, even retyping some chapters on his typewriter. The six-year-old also recorded his own audiobook, narrating the story chapter by chapter. At his request, Magalona crocheted characters from the tale, completing a Charlie Bucket doll, a blueberry version of Violet Beauregarde, and the head of Willy Wonka.

During the performance, Vito’s enthusiasm was evident. He held up his crocheted Charlie Bucket doll throughout the show so it could “watch” as well, with Magalona helping support his arm when it grew tired.

When Magalona tried to capture his reaction during the curtain call, Vito quickly reminded her that “no videos allowed.”

The experience became even more special thanks to fellow actress Karylle, whom Magalona jokingly called “Vito’s favorite neighbor.” Karylle invited the pair backstage after the show, where they met the two actors portraying Charlie—Oliver T. Wong and Cohen Toukatly—as well as resident director Drew Cipillione and Karylle herself, who plays Mrs. Bucket.

Ever the thoughtful fan, Vito had prepared handwritten letters for the cast, which he happily handed out after the performance. In his note to Mrs. Bucket, he wrote: “Dear Mrs Bucket, I love your video greeting. I am so thrilled to see you at ROALD DAHL’S CHARLIE and the CHOCOLATE FACTORY The New Musical. – Vito.”

After the show, Vito gave it glowing praise, describing it as “best as a piece of pie,” as he excitedly greeted his father, Jim Bacarro, while holding his crocheted Charlie.

Magalona described the experience as a “chocolate high,” recalling how she grew up watching the 1971 film adaptation starring Gene Wilder with her parents, Francis Magalona and Pia Arroyo. The movie became one of her childhood favorites and was among the first she shared with Vito.

Reflecting on the milestone, Magalona expressed gratitude for the memorable experience she was able to give her son.

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