As the sun sets in Prescott Park, audience members sit attentively, entering a world of “pure imagination.” With a colorful two-story set—complete with bubbles, strobe lights, and other visual quirks—the park is transformed into the infamous Wonka factory, where viewers are invited to follow Charlie Bucket and other children as they journey through the land of “Willy Wonka.”

Featuring a cast of all ages, the Prescott Park Arts Festival has partnered with the Seacoast Repertory Theatre to produce its rendition of Roald Dahl’s “Willy Wonka,” running every weekend through Aug. 26 in Portsmouth. Its the 38th season of summer theater at the waterside park.

“It’s not your traditional musical flair,” director Billy Butler said. “It’s awkward, it’s quirky.”

True to its past portrayals, including the 1971 film “Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory” and the 2005 remake “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” the play’s familiar characters come to life in the park, as Wonka and his Oompa Loompas—played by children—unveil the secret inner workings of the fantastical candy factory.

The production incorporates vibrant, eccentric costumes, like Wonka’s (Knate Higgins) trademark tophat, which rises nearly a foot above his head. It also features special effects that add even more fun to the whimsical performance, like Violet Beauregarde’s (Styliani Munroe) expanding blueberry suit.

“It’s called a ‘play’ for a reason,” Butler said. “It’s not called a ‘serious.’”

The family-friendly play features sounds as well as sights, including well-known song and dance numbers like “(I’ve Got A) Golden Ticket,” and “Candy Man.” Charlie (Gavin Sorge, Nash Tasker) and his grandfather (James Sears) also remind audience members to “think positive” during a musical act.

Though the show is suitable for all ages, Butler said there are some treats that even adults can take away from the production. He said the play’s imagination-rich storyline can be interpreted in a variety of ways. 

“You can call it a family show,” he said. “But it’s got a lot more than just for the kids.”

Specifically, he referred to a scene in the second act where Wonka recites the line, “We are the dreamers of dreams.” For Butler, the play, in all its quirkiness, comments on artists and demonstrates the importance of appreciating artistry.

In this regard, a consideration that came with the production was how to make the wild world of Wonka appear real to an audience, Butler said. Swirling light designs and a sizeable set aided the production crew in achieving this goal, but most of the interpretation will come directly from the audience members.

“There are so many layers to (the show),” Butler said. “You have to bring your imagination.”

Show times for “Willy Wonka” are Thursdays and Sundays at 7 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., with matinees on July 15 and Aug. 5 at 1 p.m., and on July 29 at noon. There is a $5 to $10 suggested donation. Prescott Park is on Marcy Street in Portsmouth.  For more information, visit www.prescottpark.org