By TONY GUERRERO
Hays Post
Hays Thomas More Prep-Marian's drama department takes the stage Thursday for its 2024 fall musical, "Big Fish School Edition."
The production is inspired by Daniel Wallace's 1998 book "Big Fish: A Novel of Mythic Proportions," which Tim Burton adapted into a 2003 film and eventually became a Broadway show.
TMP drama instructor Travis Grizzell said he was drawn to the story for its emotional depth, humor and relatable family themes.
"My wife and I went and saw this about 10 years ago. On the way home, we thought, 'Gosh, it'd be great to do this,'" he said.
The musical is set for 7 p.m. Thursday and Saturday, and at 2 p.m. Sunday in the Dreiling Theater at TMP High School, 1701 Hall St.
You can purchase your tickets for $8 here or at the door.
The story follows Will Bloom, played by Jake Brady, who feels frustrated by his father’s habit of sharing exaggerated and fantastical stories rather than genuine experiences.
Will struggles to connect with his terminally ill father, Edward Bloom, played by Blaise Staab. He seeks to uncover the truth behind his father’s stories to understand his true character before time runs out.
"It's a show that not many people are probably familiar with. There's a little bit of drama and over looming sadness... but there's so much joy leading up that point," Grizzell said.
Other featured stars include Breanna Seiler as Sandra Bloom, Carter Stephenson as Young Will, Riley Frank as Josephine Bloom and Sam Schroeder as Karl the Giant.
Grizell said audiences can expect an experience with messages about the importance of family and cherishing loved ones while they’re still here.
Grizzell said TMP's minimalistic production separates it from other adaptions and encourages the audience members to use their imaginations.
"For the drama department, I think it's good to keep in mind that you don't need the latest tech or the biggest production value to tell a good story," he said. "That's what theater is, just telling the story."
"Big Fish School Edition" is a collaborative project involving about 35 students, faculty and volunteer parents.
Grizzell said he handles much of the set construction while his wife manages costumes, but the production remains student-led with their creative decision.
Auditions took place in May, allowing the cast and crew to familiarize themselves with the material during the summer. Rehearsals started at the beginning of the school year.
"Big Fish" is Grizell's 31st show at TMP. He said he enjoys seeing his students' hard work and appreciates it when they return with their own kids to share the theater experience.
"The greatest memories made are not the performances... it's in the rehearsals, it's in the process, and it's great to see former students coming back, sometimes with their kids," he said.
You can follow the TMP-Marian Drama Department on Facebook.
