Big Fish: The Musical
Closing out February, South’s Blackshirt Players brought Big Fish: The Musical to life in a fantastic four-day run that entertained audiences and impressed all who attended.
The hardworking cast and crew worked on the show for months rehearsing, building, designing, and refining the show to present a captivating story.
Dominic Andino mentioned it was exciting to be in the show and highlighted that the music stands out. He played the role of Karl, the giant.
Caroline Hyke, who worked on costumes, described the experience as super fun and noted that everyone was welcoming and friendly. She felt the show centered on the relationship between a father and son.
Angelina Perez, a dancer and performer, thought the production was a fantastic place to work on her acting, singing, and dancing skills. She really enjoyed the dance numbers, like "Little Lambs from Alabama" and the shim sham, and said they were so much fun. Angelina also got to play different roles in the show, one of which was the Girl in the Water, which she said was a great experience for her.
These perspectives reveal the team spirit within Big Fish and show that the musical was enjoyable and fulfilling for both performers and crew.
Big Fish: the Musical is a story about fathers, sons, and the tales that shape our lives. Big Fish features music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and a book by John August. This musical is based on Daniel Wallace's 1998 novel and the 2003 Tim Burton film. The show blends realism with Southern storytelling. It shows how the tall tales a man tells become the legacy he leaves behind.
Big Fish explores significant themes. The show questions whether our lives are defined by what is true or by the stories we tell about them. Edward's tall tales contribute to the uniqueness of his relationships.
The story revolves around Edward Bloom, a man known for telling impossible stories, and his son Will. Will returns home as Edward ages and tries to uncover what is true and what is not. The narrative shifts between the present and Edward's past, which includes fascinating characters like a Witch, a Giant, and a Mermaid. Edward also shares stories about his one true love, Sandra. As the past and present collide, both men must consider what truly gives life meaning: the facts or the tales that shape them.
The soundtrack of Big Fish is a perfect blend of soulful melodies and upbeat ensemble pieces, which helps to seamlessly shift the tone of the show from lighthearted and humorous to poignant and emotional. The way the songs are staged is quite grand, with a touch of theatrical flair, featuring larger-than-life characters like giants, mesmerizing mermaids, and surreal dance sequences that transport the audience to a dreamlike world. This unique storytelling approach really brings the tall tales to life on stage, making Big Fish a truly unforgettable experience that can evoke both laughter and tears from the audience, often at the same time. By combining music, dance, and elaborate staging, the show creates a captivating atmosphere that draws the audience in and refuses to let go, leaving a lasting impression long after the curtain call.
