Big Fish

The Granite Theatre is seeking performers for the musical Big Fish.

Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton with a screenplay by John August, BIG FISH is a fantastical, heartwarming musical that follows the life of Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman whose larger-than-life stories captivate everyone around him—especially his loving wife, Sandra. But their son, Will, about to become a father himself, is determined to uncover the truth behind his father's epic tales. As Will embarks on a journey to understand the man behind the myth, BIG FISH explores the power of storytelling, family bonds, and the search for identity.

With its soaring score, unforgettable characters, and a blend of humor and heartfelt emotion, BIG FISH offers an extraordinary theatrical experience that celebrates the joy of life, the importance of family, and the beauty of the stories we tell.

Book by John August
Music and lyrics by John Andrew Lippa
Director: Marla Ladd
Music Director: Lynn Dowding
Stage Manager: Cary Richard

Show Dates: March 12th-28th with performances on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:30 pm and Sundays at 2:00 pm.

Rehearsals: Rehearsals start on January 5th with the exception of the December 29th readthrough.
Rehearsal Times: Weeknights 6:30 pm-10:00 pm; Saturdays 9:00 am-2:00 pm. Actors are not called to all rehearsals.

Warnings: Themes surrounding illness, death, and complex family relationships.

• Jenny Hill (F, 25-55): Edward's first love; a dreamer in youth, later disillusioned but dignified. Plays a key role in helping Will understand Edward. Strong belt preferred with some movement. Vocal range: Mix/belt to E5Songs: Ashton's Favorite Son and Out There On the Road.
• Ashton Mayor (M, 30+): Classic small-town mayor; friendly and approachable character.
• Don Price (M, 25-45): Snarky bully and Sandra’s former fiancé; later becomes mayor. Larger-than-life character with strong acting presence. Vocal Range: Baritone (C3–F#4) Songs: Out There on the Road, Start Over
• Dr. Bennett (M, 30+): Kind, warm, and honest physician. Straight acting role; no singing or dancing required.
• Sandra Bloom (F, 25-55): Patient, calm, and the grounding force to Edward’s enthusiasm. Deeply devoted to both her husband and son, she strives to bring them together. Young Sandra is sweet, hopeful, and romantic. Requires strong vocals, expressive acting, and solid dance ability. Role spans ages 18–60. Vocal Range: Soprano (G3–E5, mix/belt) Songs: Alabama Lambs, Time Stops, Daffodils, Red White and True, Two Men in My Life, I Don’t Need a Roof
• Josephine Bloom (F, 20-30): Will’s wife. Intelligent, grounded, and compassionate. Acts as a bridge between Will and Edward, helping interpret the meaning behind the stories. Non-singing, non-dancing role requiring strong acting.
• Will Bloom (M, 20s-30s): Earnest, serious, and thoughtful. Struggles to reconcile his father’s fantastical stories with reality. A successful professional and new husband, he must guide the emotional journey toward understanding and acceptance. Strong tenor voice required; no dance; strong acting focus. Vocal Range: Tenor (C#3–G4). Songs: Strangers, Strangers Reprise, Showdown, What’s Next, Be the Hero (Reprise)
• The Witch (F, Any age): Commanding, confident storyteller who inspires Edward to live boldly. Strong belt required with some movement ability. Vocal Range: Mezzo (F3–F5) Songs: I Know What You Want
• Fisherman (Any, 18+): Comedic hometown character. Strong singing and movement skills preferred.
• Zacky Price (M, 20-45): Don’s awkward, nerdy brother. Character role requiring strong acting.
• Young Will Bloom (M, 10-12): Curious and increasingly skeptical of his father’s stories. Participates in storytelling scenes. Primarily an acting role with a small singing moment in Fight the Dragons.
• Red Fang (18-28) War villain. Requires physicality for fight scenes and movement.
• Ensemble (Various Ages) (12 performers) All ensemble members sing and move; some will have more advanced dance requirements. Featured ensemble roles are drawn from this group.
• Edward Bloom (M, 25–55): A charming, charismatic storyteller nearing the end of his life and seeking to reconnect with his son. Loving husband and father with a passion for storytelling. Young Edward is optimistic, energetic, and romantic; must captivate the audience and sell his larger-than-life tales. Strong actor with a big voice and movement ability; capable of leading musical numbers. Role spans ages 18–60 and may be split between two actors. Vocal Range: Bari-Tenor (G2–G4) Songs: Be the Hero, Fight the Dragons, Showdown, Start Over, How It Ends, Out There on the Road, Time Stops, Closer to Her, Daffodils, Red White and True
• Amos Calloway (M, 30-50): Eccentric and flamboyant circus owner (and werewolf in Edward’s tales). Requires strong character acting and comedic ability. Singing role with emphasis on personality over vocal power. Vocal Range: Baritone (C3–F5, touches G5) Songs: Closer to Her, Start Over
• Karl the Giant (M, any age): Edward’s gentle, intelligent best friend. Shy with a quiet charisma but a commanding presence. Requires a strong voice and physical presence; This production we will be utilizing a very large wearable puppet to be maneuvered by the actor. Vocal Range: Bass (A2–D4) Songs: On the Road, Start Over