From left -- Alex Stone and Jack Posey in McLean High School’s production of “Big Fish.” Photo by Isabelle Zapoata
Iris Murdoch once said, “We live in a fantasy world, a world of illusion. The great task in life is to find reality.” This task rings especially true for one man, an optimistic dreamer. This is the man that will take you on a journey… a journey through McLean High School’s production of Big Fish.
Big Fish, based on the Daniel Wallace novel and Tim Burton movie, opened on Broadway in 2013. The show, with music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and book by John August, ran for 98 performances. Following two story lines, this heart-warming story of love, acceptance, and family, chronicles the life of Edward Bloom through the extraordinary fairy tales of his history. Swapping back and forth between past fantasies and present-day realities, Edward’s estranged son Will works to put together the puzzle of Edward’s fantastical stories to meet the father he never really knew before it is too late.
McLean Theatre’s professionalism was evident as they tackled this larger-than-life show, complete with seamless technical aspects, endearing performances, and showstopping musical numbers.
Alex Stone’s entrancing portrayal of Edward Bloom was consistently animated and vivacious, allowing him to demonstrate a full range of emotion in every situation. Stone’s impeccable vocals and precise tonal quality added an extra flair every time he was on stage. As a foil to Edward, Jack Posey played Will Bloom with simplicity and a realistic approach. Stone and Posey embodied the estranged relationship between son and father with a comfortable, yet alienated chemistry. Rounding out the Bloom family was wife and mother Sandra, played by Rachel Lawhead. Lawhead added a stable middle-ground to the broken family, using her sunny and firm disposition to truly embody her character, especially in the song “I Don’t Need a Roof.”
As the show moves forward through Edward’s fantasies, the audience is introduced to numerous mystical characters who Edward meets along the way. The Witch, played by Helena Doms, captivated the entire theater with her chilling voice and eerie qualities. Matt Lucero, who played Karl the Giant, combined his spot-on comedic timing and quirky nature to develop his friendship with Edward. The entire ensemble, made up of cowboys, circus performers, and silk aerialists to name a few, kept up the energy and vibrancy, never faltering or losing character. Each group had defined characterization which aided the overall lively and exciting dynamic of the show.
McLean’s countless technical facets added a whole other side to this superb production. Almost completely student done, standout categories included the intricate choreography, detailed costumes, and motorized sets. The choreography consisted of many different styles of dance, including stomping, tapping, and even square dancing. The performers looked comfortable with the moves, though many were new and challenging. Sets and costumes blended together beautifully to incorporate the blue color scheme of the show. Numerous sets were featured and transitioned easily and efficiently due to the automated platform and sliding stairs & screens. Each costume was designed specifically for each character and moment, giving the whole show a clean and crisp look.
Smiles were abundant as the curtain closed and the audience left the theater, which goes to show that even if you consider yourself a realist, McLean High School’s production of Big Fish can make anyone feel like they are living in a fantasy.