Synopsis
Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, Big Fish tells the story of Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman who lives life to its fullest…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 find the truth behind his father’s epic tales. Overflowing with heart and humor, Big Fish is an extraordinary musical that reminds us why we love going to the theatre—for an experience that’s richer, funnier and bigger than life itself.
Cast of Characters
Edward – (plays old and young 15-60 years old). Edward is a charming, charismatic storyteller. A devoted yet absent father nearing the end of his life and wanting to reconnect with his son. He is comfortable in his own skin, but hopes for Will’s approval. He absolutely loves his wife, his son, and telling stories. Needs a big voice and serious character acting. Plays ages ranging from high school to late 20s/ young father to older sick man. Able to move but little real dance.
Sandra – (plays old and young 20-55). Sandra is patient, calm – the perfect balance to Edwards enthusiasm. She adores and appreciates Edward and tries to bring reconciliation to her husband and son, both of whom she loves. Needs a big voice, expressive acting ability, and a good bit of dance ability.
Will – (30 years old). Will is a critical part of the story. He is an earnest, serious, thoughtful young man wanting to reconnect with his storytelling father, but unable to appreciate Edward’s romantic view of life. He is a successful professional and new husband. He has to be able to take us on the journey of understanding and make us believe the complex relationship and final heartfelt embrace of his father’s legacy. Needs a strong tenor voice. No dance. Serious character acting.
Josephine – (30 years old). Will’s wife. Successful adult, sweet, intelligent, and organically compatible with Will. Josephine acts as the bridge between Edward and Will, explaining the deeper meaning of the stories. Often on stage. No dance. Serious character acting.
Karl – the Giant. Edward’s best friend. Karl is shy, exceptionally intelligent, hermit--like, and has a quiet charisma. He needs a booming voice and large personality. Needs to be decently tall, but not a “giant.” Bass voice. Ability to walk on stilts.
Amos – circus owner. Amos is the rather eccentric, quirky owner of the circus that employs young Edward. He also happens to be a werewolf (in Edward’s tales). Needs an actor able to portray strong, outgoing personality and humor. Sings, but not necessarily great voice. Doesn’t need to move, but good stage presence essential. Character voice.
Ensemble Actors: Actors who can sing, dance, and act well. You will play multiple characters in the show, so we need talent! Actors who are composed and can lead themselves and the group towards our goal. An actor who can listen to their peers and work together, who isn’t afraid to tell others to be quiet and pay attention.
Witch – Commanding performer with great confidence and storytelling ability. She convinces Edward to pursue a Big Life without fear. Needs belt voice, mezzo soprano. Some dance, could be extensive.
Jenny Hill – plays young cheerleader to tired older woman (17-60 years old). Edward’s devoted, first girlfriend. She is beautiful, a dreamer, maybe a little blonde. As the older Jenny, she is a very tired, disillusioned version of the younger Jenny. She has dignity and honesty. Needs loud belt. She is crucial in helping Will understand Edward and Edward’s motivations. Some movement, but serious acting needed.
Don Price – (high school, college, and mayor, actor ages 17--45,). Older snarky bully. Sandra’s first fiancé́. Needs a bigger than life acting style. Possible movement but not crucial.
Zacky Price – (high school, college, and later, actor ages 14--45). Nerdy brother and shadow of Don Price.
Doctor Bennett – considerably older man. Warm, kind, frank, soft-spoken friend and physician of Edward.
Ashton Mayor – Typical small town good-guy mayor personality.
Alabama Lambs – two of Sandra’s friends (actors aged 15--25). Perform with Sandra at the circus. Needs strong singing and dancing skills. Hard harmonies
Fisherman – hometown redneck. Needs strong singing and dancing skills
Mermaid – Ensemble role that is movement based. Needs to dance
Featured Dancers
Witch Ensemble – Singing and Dancing ensemble of witches Circus Ensemble - Dances in Closer to Her
USO dancers - tap dances in Red, White, and True
Ensemble - All sing and move. Will play townspeople, fishermen, wedding guests, Ashton townspeople, college students, hospital staff.
Each student who participates in Pope Drama productions must be a member of Pope Drama Club. You may join the club after you are cast/assigned a crew part. Please double check the dates. Your cast and crew are counting on your faithful attendance at rehearsals and performances.
Auditions: Dec 6, 8, 13, 2021, 4p-8:30p (You will sign up for a timeslot for the initial audition. Callbacks are longer.)
Rehearsals: Dec 15
Jan 3 - Feb 17, M-TH
AND Jan 15, Jan 30, Feb 12, Feb 26
Set Builds: Jan 23, Jan 30, Feb 13
Tech Rehearsals: Feb 27 - March 3
Performances: March 4 - 5, 11-12
Strike: March 13
Fees: Actors $265, Tech $115.