By Amanda Christy Brown
Parent Volunteer
The acclaimed Broadway production, "BIG FISH," an enchanting musical odyssey, is set to grace the Sherborn Community Center stage from August 23rd to August 26th. This captivating musical, centered around family, is a collaborative endeavor, featuring multiple sets of siblings in the cast. Notably, sibling duo Scott Walker and Lauryn Grace lead as Director and Choreographer, respectively.
"Big Fish" narrates the life of Edward Bloom, a father and masterful storyteller. His larger-than-life accounts of encounters with witches, mermaids, and circus escapades spring to life onstage, sparking curiosity in his son Will. Throughout the production, Will yearns to unravel the truth behind these extraordinary tales. The musical, "Big Fish," pays homage to the themes of family, love, and the unearthing of remarkable aspects in everyday existence.
Walker, a seasoned director with a 16-year tenure in the Dover-Sherborn Summer Drama program, meticulously selects shows that are spirited, vibrant, and full of energy. These performances provide adept and committed student performers ample exposure to audiences. Over the course of early July to late August, program participants collaborate intensively three days a week to hone their production. This dedicated ensemble of actors, crew, and volunteers forges strong bonds throughout the summer, evolving into a close-knit theatrical family.
Amid this theatrical community, the familial connections extend even further. Siblings Scott Walker and Lauryn Grace have shared a close bond since childhood, channeling their collaborative energy into directing and choreographing. Their partnership began when Lauryn was in sixth grade and Scott was a sophomore in high school.
"Working as siblings allows us to comprehend each other's sensibilities and visions, while still fostering our individual ideas. It's a wonderful way for us to spend time together," Grace shared, underscoring the rarity of maintaining sibling connections as people grow older and establish families of their own.
Walker echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the rhythmic harmony they've cultivated over time. "She inherently grasps the essence of the show and its visual representation. It's like a huge weight off my shoulders," he remarked.
Within the Sherborn community, several sets of siblings have showcased their talents side by side for over a decade. Bradley Hodson-Walker, enacting the role of Edward Bloom in "Big Fish," reminisced about his early exposure to the summer drama program, recounting his sister Annabel's inaugural performance in "Godspell" at the Sherborn Community Center in 2011. Bradley, the youngest of four siblings, has participated consistently for the past 13 years in the DS Summer Drama program. As he approaches his senior year, "Big Fish" marks his sixth and final summer production before graduating.
Another example is the Sawan siblings, with four out of five having graced the stage together during past summers. Steven, the second eldest, has pursued acting professionally, while his youngest sister Bella assumes the role of the Witch this season. Michelle Sawan, their mother, attested to the transformative impact of the summer program on their family.
The current season boasts two sets of siblings sharing the limelight: Miranda and Dash Savla, and Jonah and Lee Brown. In her fourth summer appearance, Miranda portrays Josephine, while Dash, in his second summer show, embodies Young Will and Karl, the giant. Miranda noted that their camaraderie on stage contrasts with their playful backstage interactions. She empathically recognized the familiar dynamic in the bond between the Brown brothers.
Jonah Brown, cast as Edward Bloom, collaborates with his brother Lee Brown, portraying Lee's father on stage. Making his debut in the Dover-Sherborn Summer Drama program, Lee assumes the roles of Young Will and his own son in the production. On alternating performances, he also dons the role of Karl. A third Brown sibling awaits her opportunity to join her brothers on stage.
"Family is palpable in this room," Walker affirmed, anticipating the poignant dynamics in Jonah and Lee's portrayal. Jonah echoed the sentiment, highlighting the authenticity their shared relationship brings to their performances.
In conjunction with the family dynamics portrayed on stage, audiences can anticipate a plethora of surprises. Presented "in-the-round," the production places the audience in close proximity to the performers, ensuring an intimate experience for everyone. Dash Savla encouraged the audience to watch out for subtle interactions amid the grand production numbers.
The intricate costumes, acknowledged by Walker as "extremely complex," were orchestrated by Sheridan Miller and the Dover Foundation. These meticulously designed costumes cater to the needs of the 30-strong cast, each undergoing a minimum of five costume changes. The wardrobe spans various eras and themes, from the Wild West to the 1950s, WWII USO shows, and the circus.
The music, brought to life by a live orchestra led by Michael Jones, traverses diverse genres, from rock to country. The captivating music and lyrics are the creation of Andrew Lippa.
Walker emphasized the musical variety, offering the audience an ever-changing experience. "The show encompasses every genre of music – from rock to country and even a full-fledged tap number. As the audience sits just feet from the stage, every moment promises novelty and intrigue," Walker affirmed.
Families and friends are encouraged to catch "Big Fish" at the Sherborn Community Center. The show runs from Wednesday, August 23rd, through Saturday, August 26th, with performances beginning at 7:30 pm each evening. Tickets are currently available for purchase online at www.ticketstage.com or at the door.
