Upper School actors will put on the fantastical musical Big Fish for audiences to enjoy, with the curtain going up on February 29.

Originally a novel by Daniel Wallace, Big Fish was also adapted into a 2003 film by Tim Burton. The musical version first premiered in 2013 in Chicago. 

According to Director Bill Jacob, the story centers around Will Bloom (played by Kyle Terino ‘24), a reporter and a concrete thinker, who has difficulties connecting with his dying father, Edward Bloom (Huck Jennings ’25), who tells outrageous stories about his life. Shifting between two timelines, the musical revolves around the relationship between the two characters. 

“We’re very excited,” Jacob said. “The first scene takes place on the eve of the son’s wedding and there is a clash between the son and the father. The production has a strong core of leading roles, but it also has a lot of small roles for the ensemble to shine.” 

Jacob also praised enhanced cooperation with the Athletics Department, allowing student-athletes more rehearsal time. 

“The result has been a much better experience for everybody all the way around,” Jacob said. 

Jennings is excited for the opening night. 

“I like my character a lot,” Jennings said “I think he’s very bold, outgoing. I see a lot of traits in him that I see myself with. A lot of the same people I worked with last year are going to be in it. So it’s great. A lot of familiar faces. I think this is going to be the most exciting production l’ve ever been in.”

Claire Fleming ’25, who plays Sandra, Edward’s wife and Will’s mom, echoes Jennings.

“It’s different from the first play we did this year,” Fleming said. “We do a lot of dance numbers, and it’s a lot of fun to work with the whole cast as a group. It’s also a very different character from what I’ve played before. She has a good amount of singing. It’s a lot of fun. She’s a cool character that I get to work with.”

Jacob promises an entirely new set design. 

“It’s going to be a much more wide open stage,” Jacob said. “We’re going to have the band performing on the stage rather than in front of it in the pit.”

Jacob also emphasizes his appreciation for collaborators.

“In addition to working with Kelly, our choreographer, Middle School Drama teacher Mrs. Johnson is joining us this year. She volunteered to assist in directing.” 

Maya Lownie ‘24, who plays Josephine, Will’s wife, is also excited. 

“It’s a really big production,” Lownie said. “I love the storyline. I’m so happy that I get to watch one of the big scenes that happened in the past.”  

Editors’ note: Big Fish will be performed February 29 and March 1 at 7:00 p.m., and March 2 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Audience members can purchase tickets online or at the door for $5.