The talented performers at Mindnite Youth Theatre company will come together this month, to tell the tale of Big Fish, the musical based on the novel by Daniel Wallace, that was turned into a popular film by director Tim Burton.
Described as a show overflowing with heart, humour and magic – the show will be on at The Regal Theatre in Subiaco.
Big Fish centres on Edward Bloom, a travelling salesman who lives life to the full… and then some! Edward’s incredible, larger-than-life stories thrill everyone around him – most of all, his devoted wife Sandra. But their son Will, about to have a child of his own, is determined to discover the truth behind his father’s epic tales.
Directed by Midnite’s Artistic Director Gregory Jones, with musical direction by Rhiannon Hodgson and choreography by Seanne Sparrow, the production brings together an ensemble of highly talented senior students from Christ Church Grammar School, John Curtin College of the Arts, Methodist Ladies’ College, Presbyterian Ladies’ College and St Hilda’s Anglican School for Girls.
“The production features an outstanding cast of 40 young performers. It explores important themes of fatherhood and mortality and the difference between reality and fantasy. With joyous music and fantastical characters this musical provides an excellent vehicle for young people,” Jones said.
Samuel Weight who takes on the lead role in the production said he was excited to be part of the first production of the musical in Western Australia.
“Performing a role like Edward Bloom is such an honor and it feels great to be able to be a part of the debut of this musical here in WA,” Weight said.
“To have the opportunity to perform at the Regal Theatre is something many student actors don’t get, we’re all really looking forward to the performances.”
The musical version of Big Fish features music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa. Lippa has wrote several musicals from original source material before he took on the task of converting The Addams Family into a Broadway production.
Big Fish opened on Broadway in 2013, an acclaimed 2017 production in London starred Fazier actor Kelsey Grammer.
Lippa also wrote a tribute to gay politician Harvey Milk. His 60 minute oratorio I Am Harvey Milk was performed by the San Francisco Gay Men’s Choir in 2012. When he’s not writing award winning musicals – Lippa serves as Kristen Chenowerth’s musical director.
Midnite Youth Theatre’s produciton runs from 16 to 18 August at the Regal Theatre. Tickets are selling fast, to book visit Ticketek.com.au
OIP Staff
