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Classic Home Mortgage Providing Trustworthy Mortgage Guidance for Over 30 Years
Buying a home is one of the most significant investments that you will ever make. Like most good things, finding the perfect home comes with a lot of work. From your initial search online to your home tour and finally closing, there are many difficult decisions to make along the way. The bottom line is that the entire home buying process can be very stressful, especially when it comes to finding the right mortgage broker and loan for your new home. Since market conditions and mortgage programs change frequently, you have a lot riding on your broker's ability to provide quick and accurate financial advice. Whether you're a first-time homebuyer or own several residential properties, you need a mortgage broker in Cocoa, FL, who can educate you on mortgage rates and provide trustworthy guidance to help you make an informed decision.
My name is Dan Crance - Cocoa's most trusted mortgage loan officer with more than 30 years in the mortgage industry. I bring unparalleled insight and decades of experience into your home loan process. If you're looking for a new home loan, are interested in refinancing your current mortgage, or need information regarding FHA, VA, or other types of loans, Dan Crance is Your Mortgage Man.
Unlike some mortgage loan officers in Cocoa, my primary goal is to help you make the right mortgage choice for you and your family. Mortgage lenders have a horrible reputation for turning over clients quickly to expedite cash flow and make the most money possible. While some mortgage brokers come off as pushy and impatient, I encourage my clients to take as much time as they need to ask questions and review their mortgage agreements. I'm here to help answer those questions and provide you with easy-to-understand advice so that you can rest easy knowing you made the right choice. I could say that I strive to provide service that exceeds your expectations, but I'd rather show you. In the end, I want you to leave feeling confident in the loan you've selected, as well as in your choice of broker.
Service Areas
Mortgage Services for Eric Gibson
Mortgage Broker for Kimberlee Puccio
Mortgage Company for Seth Seal
Refinancing for Rose Griest
Mortgage Lending Service for Michael McIntyre
Home Ready Mortgages for Ed Jones
Mortgage Lender for Ryan Moreau
Mortgage Services for Laura Fogarty
Mortgage Broker for Adam Jordan
Mortgage Company for Carolina Jordan (Lowcountry Home Sales)
Mortgage Lender for Stephen Lowe
Mortgage Lending Service for Glenn Shepard
Home Ready Mortgages for Manny Roblesreynoso
Mortgage Lender for Bernie H. Hester III
Mortgage Services for Tammy R Stephens
Why Choose Dan Crance As Your Mortgage Lender in Cocoa, FL?
Clients choose my mortgage company because I truly care about helping them navigate the often-confusing landscape of the mortgage process. I am fiercely dedicated to my clients and make every effort to provide them with trustworthy advice and an open line of communication.
In my business, I work for two different customers. On one hand, I have the buyer: the person entrusting me with the responsibility of guiding them through one of the most important decisions ever. Serving homebuyers is not a task that I take lightly. I work with them daily to help them through the process and provide timely updates and news on their mortgage status. On the other hand, I have the realtor: the person who works with my client to find their dream home. Since their commission is in my hands, working with realtors is also a very important task. I update these agents on the status of their customers weekly. Only when I take care of both parties can I say my job as a mortgage loan officer is complete.
As a mortgage broker with more than 30 years of experience, I pledge to give you the highest level of customer service while providing you with the most competitive loan products available. That way, you can buy the home of your dreams without second-guessing your decision.
Ask Dan Anything843-478-5612
Home Financing in Cocoa, FL
At Classic Home Mortgage, our team works diligently to close on time without stress or hassle. Whether you're a seasoned homeowner or are buying your new home in Cocoa, we understand how much stress is involved. Our goal is to help take that stress off of your plate by walking you through every step of the home loan process. Because every one of our clients is different, we examine each loan with fresh eyes and a personalized approach, to find you the options and programs you need.
With over 30 years as a mortgage professional in Cocoa, Dan Crance will help you choose the home loan, interest rate, term options, and payment plans that fit your unique situation.
When you work with Classic Home Mortgage, you can always count on our team to:
- Put your needs first.
- Work efficiently and quickly. Many of our home loans close in 30 days or less.
- Offer you a variety of home loans to choose from, and help you make an informed decision.
- Provide you with competitive rates that make sense for your budget and lifestyle.
Ask Dan Anything843-478-5612
While no two loan terms are the same, a few of the most common loan types include:
30-Year Loan - This loan is often considered the most secure option to choose. With a 30-year loan, you can lock in a low payment amount and rest easy knowing your rate won't change.
FHA Loan - If you're not able to make a large down payment, an FHA loan could be the right choice for you. With an FHA loan, many of our clients have successfully purchased a home with less than 4% down.
VA Loan - This loan is reserved for military veterans and active-duty men and women. Those who qualify may be able to purchase a home with no down payment and no Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI).
Choosing a home loan is an important step in the home buying process. At Classic Home Mortgage, we are here to make choosing a loan as easy as possible, so you can focus on the joys of being a homeowner. Contact our team of experts today and ask how you can get pre-qualified for your home loan in Cocoa, FL.
Refinancing in
Cocoa, FL
Because home mortgage rates in the U.S. have been so low over the last year, many current homeowners are opting to refinance their home loans. Simply put, refinancing is replacing your existing mortgage with a different mortgage under new terms. Homeowners who refinance their homes enjoy lower interest rates, lower monthly payments, and even turn their home's equity into cash. If you're interested in refinancing your home, it all begins with a call to your mortgage broker in Cocoa, FL - Dan Crance.
Here are just a few reasons why more homeowners in the U.S. are taking advantage of lower rates and refinancing their homes:
Shorter Term Loan
Refinancing from a 30-year to a 15-year mortgage might seem counterproductive on the surface because your monthly payment usually goes up. However, interest rates on 15-year mortgages are lower. And when you shave off years of your previous mortgage, you will pay less interest over time. These savings can be very beneficial if you are not taking the mortgage interest deduction on your tax returns.
Do Away with FHA
FHA loans are notorious for paying premiums for the life of the loan. Mortgage insurance premiums for FHA loans can cost borrowers as much as $1,050 a year for every $100k borrowed. The only way to get rid of mortgage insurance premiums is to refinance to a new loan that the Federal Housing Authority does not back.
Switch to Fixed Rate or Adjustable-Rate Home Loan
Sometimes, borrowers with adjustable-rate mortgages refinance so they can switch to a fixed rate, which lets them lock in an interest rate. Doing so is beneficial for some homeowners who like to know exactly how much their monthly payment is each month. Conversely, some homeowners with fixed rates prefer to refinance to an adjustable-rate mortgage. Homeowners often go this route if they plan on selling in a few years and don't mind risking a higher rate if their plans fall through.
Common Questions About Home Loans
Finding the right loan can be a difficult proposition, even if you have been through the process before. This is especially true since mortgage rates and market conditions change frequently. If you're like most of my clients, you probably have questions about interest rates, refinancing options, and a litany of other topics. To help alleviate some of your stress, here are just a few common questions with answers so that you can better educate yourself as we work our way to securing your loan.
Trust Dan Crance
Your Mortgage Lender in Cocoa, FL
Whether you're selling, buying, refinancing, or building the home of your dreams, you have a lot riding on your home loan specialist. When you need a mortgage broker who works tirelessly for you, answers your questions, provides guidance, and does so with a genuine smile, Dan Crance is your mortgage man. Contact Dan today at 843-478-5612 to get pre-approved and discover why Cocoa loves Classic Home Mortgage.
After hours by appointment only. CONTACT DANLatest News in Cocoa, FL
3 takeaways from Cocoa's victory over Gadsden County for the 2A state crown
Andy Villamarzohttps://www.si.com/high-school/florida/3-takeaways-from-cocoa-s-victory-over-gadsden-county-for-the-2a-state-crown-01jexxjxqv9e
MIAMI, FLORIDA- Every football program dreams of notching a 3-peat when it comes to a state championship.On Thursday afternoon, Cocoa made what some teams throughout the Sunshine State a full blown reality.Needing a strong second half effort, the Tigers were able to edge out a feisty Gadsden County bunch, 38-27, at Florida International's Pitbull Stadium in front of 1,371 fans. Florida State signee Jayvan Boggs (112 yards receiving) was chasing history in attempting to surpass the state record for yards in a si...
MIAMI, FLORIDA- Every football program dreams of notching a 3-peat when it comes to a state championship.
On Thursday afternoon, Cocoa made what some teams throughout the Sunshine State a full blown reality.
Needing a strong second half effort, the Tigers were able to edge out a feisty Gadsden County bunch, 38-27, at Florida International's Pitbull Stadium in front of 1,371 fans. Florida State signee Jayvan Boggs (112 yards receiving) was chasing history in attempting to surpass the state record for yards in a single season, but fell short in the win.
High School On SI was on hand for the state championship clash and give you three takeaways from the contest.
1. Gadsden County made Cocoa earn it for the 3-peat
Up against a very formidable Gadsden County crew, which some thought might be an easy walk through Pitbull Stadium, became an all-out battle for 4 quarters. Many would've expected the game to come down to the dynamic duo of Brady Hart (Texas A&M signee) and Jayvan Boggs (Florida State signee), but it would be Latrison Lane (80 yards, two touchdowns) saving the day. The running back came up in a huge way, helping lead the Tigers' second-half offensive charge en route to the program's coveted 3-peat they've been working towards all season long. Lane's touchdown plus some big runs in the fourth quarter helped fuel Cocoa's last score, a 2-yard Hart run. Gadsden County made Cocoa earn it and in the final quarter is where the difference was.
2. The Jaguars made no bones about running the ball
If you looked at the offensive front of Gadsden County's, you'd probably want to run the ball exclusively, too. Behind the 1-2 punch of running backs Kemarrion Battles (100 yards) and Tristen Davis (59 yards), the Jaguars tried pounding the Tigers into submission throughout the game. Finding the big play was the problem the entire afternoon for Russell Ellington's bunch as they could never get over the top or make an explosive in the ground-and-pound approach to the contest. Despite playing the 3 yards and a cloud of dust kinda game, Ellington started to put the ball in the air against Cocoa's talented defense did find promise, but was a bridge too far in the end.
3. What a 2024 season Hart-to-Boggs really was for Cocoa
Now Florida high school football fans have been treated to the likes of Jeremiah Smith, Brandon Innis, Malachi Toney and a host of others, but this duo of Hart-to-Boggs had themselves a season to remember when it comes to the connection the pair have. Though Hart finished the game completing 22-of-31 passes for 259 yards and one touchdown, leading Cocoa to two state championships is certainly an accomplishment to relish in. Question for Tigers' fan is who will be the next great under center for Cocoa?
FHSAA 2024 1A-7A PREDICTIONS/PREVIEWS
2024 FHSAA high football state championship projections
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 2A state championship
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 3A state championship
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 4A state championship
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 5A state championship
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 6A state championship
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 7A state championship
FHSAA 2024 CHAMPIONSHIPS BRACKETS
2024 CLASS 7A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 6A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 5A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 4A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 3A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 2A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 1A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
Follow High School On SI throughout the 2024 high school football season for Live Updates, the most up to date Schedules & Scores and complete coverage from the preseason through the state championships!
Be sure to Bookmark High School on SI for all of the latest high school football news.
Download the SBLive App
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-- Andy Villamarzo | villamarzo@scorebooklive.com | @highschoolonsi
Cocoa defeats Gadsden County in clash for Florida 2A title: Live updates recap
Chris Bernhardthttps://www.si.com/high-school/florida/gadsden-county-and-cocoa-clash-for-florida-2a-title-live-updates-01jew0ckd9j2
Tigers top Jaguars for a state championship 3-peatThe Florida High School Athletic Association's (FHSAA) high school football state championship series goes from The Villages in Mid-Central Florida down to the 305 in Dade County.A matchup many may not have expected will kick things off when Gadsden County (13-1) takes on Cocoa (10-3) for the Class 2A state championship.High School On SI will be providing live updates all afternoon long as the Tigers and Jaguars clash at Pitbull Stadium in Miami.(Keep refreshin...
Tigers top Jaguars for a state championship 3-peat
The Florida High School Athletic Association's (FHSAA) high school football state championship series goes from The Villages in Mid-Central Florida down to the 305 in Dade County.
A matchup many may not have expected will kick things off when Gadsden County (13-1) takes on Cocoa (10-3) for the Class 2A state championship.
High School On SI will be providing live updates all afternoon long as the Tigers and Jaguars clash at Pitbull Stadium in Miami.
(Keep refreshing page for live updates from the game)
1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | Final | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Gadsden Co. | 7 | 2 | 6 | 12 | 27 |
Cocoa | 14 | 0 | 3 | 21 | 38 |
PREGAME
The Class 2A state championship is slated to kickoff at 12:30 p.m. Eastern Time
Gadsden County wins the coin toss and elects to receive.
1st quarter
Third play from scrimmage and a big play, Cocoa's Duran Guilford with an interception and the Tigers start deep in Gadsden territory.
Cocoa goes for it and converts 4th-and-1 from the 11, with a QB dive by Brady Hart.
Brady Hart rolls right and finds superstar receiver and FSU signee Jayvan Boggs in the back of the end zone for a great 11-yard TD pass and catch. Cocoa takes a 7-0 lead at 8:18 in the opening quarter.
Jeremiah Thomas with a long kickoff return gives Gadsden the ball into Cocoa territory to start the next drive.
Gadsden converts 4th-and-1 with a short run by Kemarrion Battles to keep the possession alive.
On 4th-and-inches from the 11, Kemarrion Battles runs it into the end zone for a touchdown as Gadsden ties it up at 7-7 with 3:33 in the quarter.
Jayvan Boggs with a 54-yard reception brings it down the Gadsden 6-yard line.
Next play Latrison Lane runs in a 6-yard touchdown, Cocoa makes it 14-7 with 1:04 left in the quarter.
End of 1st quarter Cocoa leads 14-7
2nd quarter
In game already with three big 4th down conversions, Cocoa stuffs one on a TFL by Javion Hilson.
Bad snap on a punt way over Cocoa punter Marcus Trout's head and the ball bounces all the way to the end zone, where Trout can only kick it out of bounds resulting in a safety. Gadsden inches closer to 14-9 at 8:37 in the quarter.
Gadsden's Kelvin Crawford down for a long time with 27 seconds left, finally able to get up and walk off under his on power. Heading straight to the locker room.
Marcus Trout missed a 24-yard field goal try, pulling it wide left. Cocoa had a first down on the Gadsden 7 but the Jaguars defense held.
Halftime Cocoa leads 14-9.
3rd quarter
Kelvin Crawford, who left the game late in the second quarter with a stinger, was back for Gadsden to start the half and had a big sack on the opening drive.
Kemarrion Battles with his second TD of the day, this one on a 3-yard run. After a penalty negated a 2-point try, the snap was bad on the extra point. Still, Gadsden takes its first lead, 15-14 at 6:00 in the quarter.
Gadsden with a goal-line stand after Cocoa had 1st-and-goal from the 1. Cocoa settles for a 21-yard field from Marcus Trout to go back in front 17-15 with 1:38 left in the quarter.
Gadsden fails to convert on 4th-and-2 from its own 28 and that's how the third quarter ends. Cocoa clinging to a 17-15 lead gets the ball back deep in Gadsden territory.
4th quarter
Latrison Lane takes a pitch and runs it in for a 3-yard touchdown, Cocoa takes advantage of the turnover on downs by Gadsden to take a 24-15 lead with 10:31 to play.
Daylen Green hit in stride on a 55-yard touchdown pass from Landon Dougherty, though Cocoa's Tyion Jacobs blocks the PAT, Gadsden pulls within 24-21 with 9:01 remaining.
Brady Hart scores on a 1-yard QB keeper for what could be the clinching touchdown, Cocoa up 31-21 with 5:21 to go.
Landon Dougherty finds Christian Barrett for a 30-yard touchdown pass but can't connect on the 2-point try, Gadsden pulls within 31-27 with 3:31 to play.
Big 3rd-and-14 play coming for Cocoa with 1:16 left.
It's 4th-and 2 and Latrison Lanes runs for a 42-yard touchdown, his third of the day, as Cocoa looks to have this locked up ahead 38-27 with 1:04 remaining.
Injury to Gadsden's Kemarrion Battles has the ending of this game on hold. There's only 38 seconds left.
Battles, who had just made a catch, being helped off unable to put weight on his left leg.
A small fight broke out and there's also another Gadsden player down with an injury. There are 4 seconds left, ugly ending to a game that is effectively over.
Finally the game is over. Cocoa with a 38-27 victory over Gadsden County to win the 2A title, completing a state championship 3-peat.
Follow High School On SI throughout the 2024 high school football season for Live Updates, the most up to date Schedules & Scores and complete coverage from the preseason through the state championships!
Be sure to Bookmark High School on SI for all of the latest high school football news.
Download the SBLive App
To get live updates on your phone - as well as follow your favorite teams and top games - you can download the SBLive Sports app: Download iPhone App| Download Android App
Published Dec 12, 2024|Modified Dec 12, 2024
Great white shark pings off Cocoa Beach, Florida in time for Friday the 13th SpaceX launch
Kim Lucianihttps://www.floridatoday.com/story/news/2024/12/12/great-white-sharks-florida-ocearch-ping-cocoa-beach-spacex/76943410007/
A 10-foot great white shark surfaced off the Space Coast of Florida in what could be considered a prime viewing area for a planned Friday, ...
A 10-foot great white shark surfaced off the Space Coast of Florida in what could be considered a prime viewing area for a planned Friday, Dec. 13 SpaceX launch.
The shark, nicknamed Penny by the OCEARCH scientist who tagged her, pinged southeast of Cocoa Beach at 9:48 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 12.
The satellite tag attached to Penny's dorsal fin emitted a ping with location information when it broke the water's surface and sent it to the OCEARCH tracker.
It's Penny's second ping off Florida's east coast this month. The animal surfaced off Amelia Island on Dec. 3, the first ping of her current overwintering journey around Florida.
North Atlantic great white sharks spend summers up North and migrate south to spend winter in warmer waters with more abundant food sources, including around Florida and the Gulf of Mexico.
Penny left the Gulf of Lawrence near the Canadian province of New Brunswick on Oct. 6 and headed for the North Atlantic Ocean, then south to Florida where she first pinged off Amelia Island on Dec. 3.
During Penny's last overwintering in Florida, the shark pinged around Florida numerous times, including:
Here's what to know about Penny, OCEARCH and sharks in Florida:
What to know about OCEARCH great white shark Penny
Penny, a female juvenile great white shark, measured 10 feet 3 inches and weighed 522 pounds when it was tagged on April 23, 2023, off Ocracoke, North Carolina.
The shark has traveled 8,977 miles since then.
Penny was the 92nd white shark tagged by OCEARCH in the Western North Atlantic and named after the group's friends at Salty Penny Canvas in Morehead City, North Carolina.
How many sharks does OCEARCH track?
As of Dec. 11, 2024, according to the OCEARCH shark tracker, the group has tagged 373 sharks, with great white sharks leading the pack:
The group has also tagged alligators, dolphins, seals, swordfish and turtles.
What does OCEARCH do for great white sharks?
OCEARCH is a nonprofit research organization studying the ocean's giants.
The group studies keystone species, including great white sharks, essential for the health of the oceans.
"At OCEARCH, we’re on a mission to solve the Global White Shark Puzzle. There are nine populations of white sharks across the globe and OCEARCH’s goal is to assist regional scientists to better understand the life of the white shark in each of these populations," the group's website states.
During the expeditions, researchers collected previously unattainable data on the animals' migrations, reproductive cycle, genetic status, diet, abundance, and more.
"If we lose the apex predator (sharks) then we lose all our fish and then there are no fish sandwiches for our grandchildren," OCEARCH founder Chris Fischer told the Courier Journal. "That's oversimplified, of course, but the idea is important because many shark species are threatened by overfishing and a demand for shark fins in Asia. Their dwindling numbers jeopardize ocean habitats."
Are there great white sharks around Florida?
Yes. Great white sharks migrate south when the water gets cold and food sources become scarce up North, according to OCEARCH chief scientist Dr. Bob Hueter.
Think of them as the snowbirds of sharks.
Most of them tend to stay away from the beaches in continental shelf waters, Hueter said.
Great white shark facts
Here are some things to know about white sharks, according to NOAA Fisheries:
5 shark attacks in Florida during summer 2024
Florida saw several shark bites this summer:
Most shark attacks happen in Florida
There were 69 documented unprovoked shark attacks around the globe in 2023, according to International Shark Attack File.
The U.S. led the world with 36 attacks and Florida again was the state with the most bites at 16, none of which were fatal.
A great white shark has not been identified in a Florida shark bite since 1926.
U.S. shark attacks in 2023:
While the U.S. has the most attacks, South Africa has the most shark-related fatalities.
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How to watch Cocoa vs. Gadsden County live stream: Florida (FHSAA) 2A football state championship game
Andy Villamarzohttps://www.si.com/high-school/florida/how-to-watch-cocoa-vs-gadsden-county-live-stream-florida-fhsaa-2a-football-state-championship-game-01jewm3kc21t
The Florida High School Athletic Association's (FHSAA) high school football state championships 1A-7A begins continues down in South Florida with the Class 2A tilt between Cocoa and Gadsden County.Stay with High School On SI for live updates, photos, video highlights, game stories and more from all seven FHSAA football state title games at Florida International's Pitbull Stadium.Here's how to watch Cocoa vs. Gadsden County:...
The Florida High School Athletic Association's (FHSAA) high school football state championships 1A-7A begins continues down in South Florida with the Class 2A tilt between Cocoa and Gadsden County.
Stay with High School On SI for live updates, photos, video highlights, game stories and more from all seven FHSAA football state title games at Florida International's Pitbull Stadium.
Here's how to watch Cocoa vs. Gadsden County:
HOW TO WATCH COCOA (10-3) VS. GADSDEN COUNTY (13-1)
What: Cocoa and Gadsden County square off in the FHSAA Class 2A football state championship game
When: 12:30 p.m. Eastern Time, December 12
Where: Florida International's Pitbull Memorial Stadium | Miami, Florida
How to watch the live stream online: You can watch this game live on the NFHS Network.
Live score updates: Follow the game on High School On SI for live game updates.
More coverage: High School On SI features in-depth coverage of Florida high school football including season previews, team rankings, top player lists and much more. Follow your favorite teams on High School On SI's live high school football scoreboard and download the SBLive Sports App.
FHSAA 2024 1A-7A PREDICTIONS/PREVIEWS
2024 FHSAA high football state championship projections
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 2A state championship
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 3A state championship
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 4A state championship
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 5A state championship
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 6A state championship
Predicting the winner of the 2024 Florida high school football 7A state championship
FHSAA 2024 CHAMPIONSHIPS BRACKETS
2024 CLASS 7A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 6A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 5A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 4A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 3A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 2A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
2024 CLASS 1A CHAMPIONSHIP BRACKET
Follow High School On SI throughout the 2024 high school football season for Live Updates, the most up to date Schedules & Scores and complete coverage from the preseason through the state championships!
Be sure to Bookmark High School on SI for all of the latest high school football news.
Download the SBLive App
To get live updates on your phone - as well as follow your favorite teams and top games - you can download the SBLive Sports app: Download iPhone App| Download Android App
-- Andy Villamarzo | villamarzo@scorebooklive.com | @highschoolonsi
Get your golden ticket to see 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' at Cocoa Village Playhouse
Christina LaFortunehttps://www.floridatoday.com/story/entertainment/2024/11/19/cocoa-village-playhouse-offers-charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory-pure-imagination-brevard-theater/76066996007/
Cocoa Village Playhouse brings to life one of the sweetest stories ever told, as the musical "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" opens on Friday, Nov. 22 for a run through Dec. 8.The show, based upon Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book, has been reimagined with a musical twist. With music and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and a book by David Greig, this version of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factor...
Cocoa Village Playhouse brings to life one of the sweetest stories ever told, as the musical "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" opens on Friday, Nov. 22 for a run through Dec. 8.
The show, based upon Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book, has been reimagined with a musical twist. With music and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and a book by David Greig, this version of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" keeps the essence of the quirky, magical tale while adding toe-tapping tunes.
If you’ve read Dahl’s classic novel or watched the film adaptations, you already know the story: Young Charlie Bucket, the underdog with a heart of gold, wins the chance of a lifetime to tour Willy Wonka’s fantastical, whimsical candy factory. Along the way, we meet a cast of colorful, cautionary characters.
Nathaniel Knepper-Quijano, who co-directs the show with John Dudley, says the stage musical adds a fresh spin to the familiar story. With a catchy score, the production has an updated feel while still staying true to the spirit of the original.
"The songs in the musical don’t just enhance the story," he said. "They add layers of emotion and constant humor that make each character’s journey even more memorable. You’ll find familiar tunes like 'Pure Imagination,' but also fresh numbers that capture the thrill and the moral lessons of the tale in a modern way."
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The production keeps the comedy alive, making this version just as fun for adults as it is for kids.
"For children, there’s the pure magic of seeing Wonka’s whimsical factory come to life," Knepper-Quijano said. "And for adults, the story’s clever humor and meaningful lessons add a layer of nostalgia and depth."
James Spiva plays Willy Wonka, the enigmatic chocolatier, with a mix of mystery and charm. And of course, where there’s Wonka, there must be a Charlie, the show's wide-eyed protagonist. In Cocoa Village Playhouse's production, Sam Dribble and Holden Zentz share the role of Charlie Bucket, embodying the purity, hope and kindness at the story’s core.
Cocoa Village Playhouse's production balances the outrageousness of Wonka’s world and the sincerity of Charlie’s journey.
"In our production, we’ve worked to let these two elements complement each other," Knepper-Quijano said. "The vibrant, quirky aspects of Wonka’s world bring out the fantasy and humor that audiences love, but they also serve as a backdrop that makes Charlie’s humble sincerity shine even brighter."
"At its core, the story is about kindness, humility, and the value of staying true to oneself, even in a world full of temptations and distractions," Knepper-Quijano said. "Each character’s journey, especially Charlie’s, highlights the importance of integrity and gratitude."
This production is as much a visual extravaganza as it is a heartwarming musical.
"Our production design is all about immersing the audience into the mystery and magic of Willy Wonka's wild and wonderful world from the moment they step into the theater," Knepper-Quijano said. "From large factory walls to sailing bathtubs, every detail is crafted to transport audiences straight into the heart of Wonka’s factory."
Adding a sweet twist to this production, Cocoa Village Playhouse has partnered with Grimaldi Candy Company for a golden ticket giveaway. Hidden inside select boxes of Grimaldi’s chocolate covered potato chips are special golden tickets, each redeemable for two free show tickets.
"The richness of that local, authentic connection adds an extra layer of magic to this already enchanting story, and we are so excited to share it with our audience," Knepper-Quijano said.
For Brevard audiences, the chance to step inside Wonka’s world will be a sweet escape, especially as the holiday season approaches. With eye-popping sets, lively performances, and plenty of heart, "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" promises to be a delicious treat.
'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'
Where: Cocoa Village Playhouse, 300 Brevard Ave., Cocoa
When: 7:30 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 8
Tickets: Start at $35
Call: 321-636-5050
Website: cocoavillageplayhouse.com
Christina LaFortune is the Entertainment and TGIF Editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Follow her on Facebook at facebook.com/christinalafortune or send her an email at clafortune@floridatoday.com.
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Curtain up! Here's what's coming to Brevard theaters for 2024-25
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