Join the Alliance Theatre for their final performance today at 2 PM as they present one of Roald Dahl’s most famous characters on a family friendly musical adventure. Featuring a wickedly tuneful score and a witty and charming book, this adventurous musical about courage and self-discovery is destined to be a classic. When James is sent by his conniving aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion that grows a tremendous peach, rolls into the ocean facing hunger, sharks and plenty of disagreements along the way.
As the Overture ends, Ladahlord, our mysterious narrator played by Will Mosier, makes his entrance on an empty stage. “I love how magical and yet mysterious my character is in this musical,” said Will. I get to dance and juggle while being a sort of guardian Angel to James. It’s really cool.” He is quickly joined by the rest of the Company (“Right Before Your Eyes”) for the first group number. Right away you will fall in love with our brightly dressed characters as they dance and sing into your hearts.
The scene transitions into an Orphanage, Where Matron Nurse calls for lights out. James talks in his sleep and is having a terrible nightmare about his mother and father who were killed when a Rhino escaped from the Zoo. When James wakes up he spots a Ladybug and a Grasshopper and sends them on their way (“On Your Way Home”). “I love playing the Grasshopper”, said Aiden Goggin. “He is a very happy character, and sort of a father figure to James.”
Suddenly the Matron Nurse announces that James has two Aunts who have agreed to take him in. They rush to catch the train as Ladahlord follows along (Right Before Your Eyes- Reprise). At the final destination, Vagrants crisscross the stage and we are introduced to Spiker and Sponge, James’ two Aunts. They survive by stealing, lying and Bribing Billy and Bobby-Cop (“Property of Spiker and Sponge”). They learn that they have been named the guardians of James and quickly plan to use him as their personal servant. “I’m really excited about playing a bad character for once”, says young actress Heidi Clouse who plays Sponge. “She is so into herself and loves food. She treats James like a pest in her way. I could never be that mean to someone off stage.”
To find out what happens to poor James and how he gets to be with that Giant Peach, join the Alliance Theatre today at 2 PM for our final performance at:
Mountain View High School
5775 Spindle Ct.
Centreville, VA 20121
Buy your tickets at the door, or purchase them online.
The article was written by Joey Olson.
