November 5, 2015

James and the Giant Peach hits the Bonstelle stage Nov. 13-22

Follow young James into a land of talking insects, mean old grownups and one giant peach in the Bonstelle Theatre's production of James and the

Follow young James into a land of talking insects, mean old grownups and one giant peach in the Bonstelle Theatre's production of James and the Giant Peach. One of Roald Dahl's earliest novels comes to life in this adaptation for the stage by David Wood. Playing Nov. 13-22, this classic story promises enjoyment for the whole family.

James and the Giant Peach is told through storytelling, puppetry and enthralling live action that will keep audience members on the edge of their seats.

The production will feature original music from composer and Detroit native Neal Warner. Warner has previously composed music and new works for the Bonstelle's productions of Peter Pan and Urinetown: The Musical. Most recently, Warner's work was featured in the Hilberry Theatre's season premiere production of One Man, Two Guvnors.

Directing James and the Giant Peach is guest director Katie Campbell, associate director and company actor with the Arkansas Art Center's Children's Theater. "It is a delight and welcomed challenge to bring this well-beloved story to the stage," said Campbell. "As a theatre artist, I am drawn to James' journey of personal transformation. Although the story was written more than 50 years ago, I feel the themes of perseverance and friendship transcend the decades to resonate with the youth of today."

Starring as James is Detroit native Joseph Paul Nix, who comes to the Bonstelle Theatre Company as a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Nix said he found a personal connection with the role.

“James is a child, stripped bare of his identity, in an environment that seems to offer no sense of solitude. Like James, I embraced a courageous transformation. Going from the Marine Corps to the stage, I quickly found that theatre is in every part of me and has strengthened my will to live for something larger than myself."

Each night before the performance, audience members will be encouraged to create their own paper seagull to aide James in his flight across the Atlantic. The arts and crafts project will start promptly at 6 p.m. Following each performance, there will be a meet-and-greet session with the cast.

Tickets range from $10 to $20 and are available by phone at 313-577-2960 or online at wsushows.com.