Big Fish

Big Fish is a story about stories and a lovely blend of fantasy and reality, well understood by Director Tammy Peckover. Will Bloom’s father is a consummate storyteller. As he faces his final illness, Edward sets out to find the truth behind his tall tales. Murray Music and Drama Club’s production is full of warmth.

A beautiful looking production, the set, designed by Andy Peckover, features a forestage river, from which can emerge a mermaid (a beautiful Brylin Bonner) or fish. Scenes change easily from locale to locale, and I loved the simple transition to a circus. The ultimate scene of the first act is a stunner, featuring daffodils by the dozen, a fabulous effort by Kelly Cure and team. Costumes, coordinated by Cathy Puzey, are lovely and add to the joy of the production. Lighting design, by Thomas Pestrucci includes bold and fantastic choices.

Acting throughout is impressive, demonstrating a good understanding of the style and story. Joel Gad is an earnest Will, keen to know his father better, well supported by Kelly Cure as partner Josephine. His dad Edward is nicely portrayed by Jarrad Thomas, aging up and down throughout the show, and a great raconteur. His wife Sandra is played by Maisie Williams, delightful in her first lead role, singing beautifully and acting with admirable gravitas.

This show is packed to the brim with colourful cameos and larger-than-life characters, with the remainder of the cast playing up to six roles. It’s impossible to mention everyone, but particularly memorable appearances included Max Bonner’s impressive stilt walking as Giant, Carl; Jemma Little’s sweet Jenny Hill; Karen Godfrey’s prophetic Witch; Tobias Kane’s well plated Young Will, and Shaynna Peckover’s final scene look into the next generation.

Michelle Ezzy gives us choreography well suited to diverse abilities of the cast, that is nicely executed throughout - including an impressive Alabama Stomp.

What stops this production reaching the top echelon of shows, were the vocal performances, as despite some strong singers, many solos and group numbers just didn’t sound quite right. The rehearsal period was fraught with incidents, including the unforeseen withdrawal of the vocal director. Despite strong efforts from a rescue team of Sian Wake, Christina Fahl, Christie McGarrity and Rp van der Westhuizen, the vocals were not as strong as the rest of this lovely production.

This charming story is still worth a look, for great feels and a joyous well-told story. A pleasant and uplifting production, that takes its audience on a rollercoaster of emotion but leaves them smiling.

Kimberley Shaw