DIRECTOR’S NOTES
Big Fish is based on the celebrated 1998 novel by Daniel
Wallace and the acclaimed 2003 film directed by Tim
Burton. The show has an eclectic score by Andrew Lippa,
and script by John August.
This musical is a tale of growing up, facing the realities
of adulthood, and leaving a legacy. With storytelling
being the heart of Big Fish, we have gotten to explore
that theme and its multiple art forms, making it the core
of our process this summer. Like our protagonist Edward
Bloom, we are emphasizing why storytelling in any form
is important to the world we live in.
It has been a most rewarding journey creating this world with our young
performers. We have explored a multitude of dance styles from tap, jazz, ballet,
and even flat-footing. We have challenged our cast with advanced character work,
and scene study - whether they are playing a young child, soon-to-be-parents,
terminally ill patients, mermaids, witches, giants, and werewolves! This production
has proved an insightful experience for our team and cast to grow as we explored
our craft, relationships, and the human condition through the art of theatre and
story-telling.
Big Fish beautifully illustrates how stories are passed down, and are meant to give
life meaning, value, and an understanding of the world. So I invite you to join us,
come stand in the river, and letʼs think, dream, live, and love BIGGER!
W
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Thank you,
Steve MacKinnon
Director