Big Fish

Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, BIG FISH tells the story of Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman who lives life to its fullest…and then some! Edward’s incredible, larger-than-life stories thrill everyone around him—most of all, his devoted wife, Sandra. But their son, Will, about to have a child of his own, is determined to find the truth behind his father’s epic tales. Overflowing with heart and humor, BIG FISH is an extraordinary musical that reminds us why we love going to the theatre—for an experience that’s richer, funnier and bigger than life itself.

THEMES and Genre (Comedy)

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
Family Relationships
Storytelling: Fantasy vs Reality

CHARACTERS

Edward Bloom
Edward is a charming, charismatic storyteller. A devoted yet absent father nearing the end of his life and wanting to reconnect with his son. He is comfortable in his own skin, but hopes for Will’s approval. He absolutely loves his wife, his son, and telling stories.

Young Edward is an enthusiastic, optimistic, energetic romantic. He needs to steal our hearts and make us buy into the fabulous myths that he enters. He is the quintessential hometown boy hero. Needs a big voice and serious character acting. Plays ages ranging from young man to older sick man. Able to dance.

Sandra Bloom
Sandra is patient, calm – the perfect balance to Edwards enthusiasm. She adores and appreciates Edward and tries to bring reconciliation to her husband and son, both of whom she loves. Young Sandra is a lovely, sweet, fresh-­‐faced, innocent young girl excited by the possibilities of life. She appreciates Edward’s romantic viewpoint. Needs a big voice, expressive acting ability, and dance ability.

Will Bloom
Will is a critical part of the story. He is an earnest, serious, thoughtful young man wanting to reconnect with his storytelling father, but unable to appreciate Edward’s romantic view of life. He is a successful professional and new husband. He has to be able to take us on the journey of understanding and make us believe the complex relationship and final heartfelt embrace of his father’s legacy. Needs a strong tenor voice. Serious character acting.

Josephine Bloom
Will’s wife. Successful adult, sweet, intelligent, and organically compatible with Will. Josephine acts as the bridge between Edward and Will, explaining the deeper meaning of the stories. Often on stage. No singing. No dance. Serious character acting.

Karl the Giant
Edward’s best friend. Karl is shy, exceptionally intelligent, hermit-­‐like, and has a quiet charisma. He needs a booming voice and large personality. Needs to be decently tall, but not a “giant.” Bass voice. Ability to walk on stilts or desire to learn.

Amos Calloway
Amos is the rather eccentric, quirky owner of the circus that employs young Edward. He also happens to be a werewolf (in Edward’s tales). Needs an actor able to portray strong, outgoing personality and humor. Sings, but not necessarily great voice. Doesn’t need to move, but good stage presence is essential. Character voice.

Witch
Commanding performer with great confidence and storytelling ability. She convinces Edward to pursue a Big Life without fear. Needs belt voice; mezzo soprano. Some dance, could be extensive.

Jenny Hill
Edward’s devoted, first girlfriend. She is beautiful, a dreamer, maybe a little blonde. As an adult, she is a very tired, disillusioned version of the younger Jenny. She has dignity and honesty. She is crucial in helping Will understand Edward and Edward’s motivations. Needs loud belt. Some movement. Also included in ensemble.

Don Price
Older snarky bully. Sandra’s first fiancé. Needs a bigger than life acting style.

Zacky Price
Nerdy brother and shadow of Don Price.

Dr Bennett
Warm, kind, frank, soft-­‐spoken friend and physician of Edward.

Red Fang
World War II villain. Needs fight scene movement abilities.

Mayor of Ashton
Typical small town good-­‐guy mayor personality.

Alabama Lambs
Two of Sandra’s friends. Perform with Sandra at the circus. Needs strong singing and dancing skills.

Fisherman
Good ol’boy persona

Ensemble
Be The Hero – townspeople, fishermen
I Know What You Want – dancers
Wedding Scene – wedding guests
Aston’s Favorite Son – Ashton townspeople
Out There On the Road – Ashton townspeople
Closer to Her (and preceding) – circus (some)
Auburn (pre-­‐Daffodils) -­‐-­‐ college students (some)
Red, White, and True – USO dancers and soldiers
Showdown – Westerners
Start Over – Ashton townspeople
What’s Next – hospital people (some)
Procession – funeral (some)