Students of the Monroe High School Drama Club will be performing the musical “Big Fish”, based on the 1998 novel by Daniel Wallace, with music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and script by John August.
“Big Fish” tells the story of Edward Bloom and his son Will, a young man about to be married, and their relationship through the years and extravagant storytelling. “Big Fish” was previously adapted to the big screen in 2003 by Tim Burton, featuring the talent of Ewan McGregor, Helena Bonham Carter, Danny DeVito, and the late Albert Finney.
The MHS production is directed by Mrs. Rebecca Molenda. This is Mrs. Molenda’s 3rd musical at MHS, with previous credits including “Bye Bye Birdie” and “Mamma Mia!”. Mrs. Molenda stated that she is “most excited about sharing this whimsical story of one’s journey through life and the show allows”.
Students of the MHS Drama Club are excited to bring this show to life.
Sophomore Aubrey Fremion said that “watching it all come together” is one of her favorite things so far about this production. Fremion continued, “Everyone is working really hard and this is a beautiful and amazing story”.
When asked what her favorite thing about the production so far, sophomore Jordyn Campbell said, “Watching the cast become a family” has been it. “We put a lot of work into this show and believe that the students will really enjoy this show”, Campbell added.
Senior Brandon Miller plays Dr. Bennet. Miller stated, “This story is really good and will make you cry”.
Mr. Jeremy Kimberlin constructed the sets for the show. When he was asked what he was most excited about for this show Kimberlin said, “This is the first time to utilize a second spot. The work kids are doing this show is different”.
“I think Mrs. Molenda is doing an amazing job leading a show rooted in reality, but still very fairytale-like” Kimberlin added.
“I know it’s not a well-known show, but I hope that won’t stop people from showing up because it’s going to be amazing”, Molenda stated.
Molenda shared that this production will be dedicated to the memory of MHS choir director, Cate Windleborn. Molenda and Kimberlin both expressed this loss as being an emotional challenge for their students to overcome. Having been a supporter of the arts, Windelborn worked with the MHS Drama Club musicals to help students learn their music and elevate their performances.
“Big Fish” will be performed by the MHS Drama Club on Friday, November 17, and Saturday, November 18 at 7:00 PM, and a matinee performance on Sunday, November 19, 2:00 PM. Attendees can purchase their tickets at the door. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $5 for students/children.