Department of Theatre presents Homecoming musical ‘Big Fish’

Oct. 16, 2017 | Theatre | Homecoming |

The Harding University departments of theatre and music will present the annual Homecoming musical Oct. 19-20 at 8 p.m. in Benson Auditorium. This year’s production is “Big Fish,” with music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and book by John August. The musical is based on the 2003 Tim Burton film of the same title.

“Big Fish” reminds one why they should never grow up. Traveling salesman Edward Bloom tells incredible, larger-than-life tales that thrill everyone around him. His son, Will, who is about to have a child of his own, is on a quest to find the truth behind the epic tales. Join the Blooms as they meet a friendly giant, a soothsaying witch and adorable dancing circus elephants.

“‘Big Fish’ is a show unlike anything we've done before,” said producer Cindee Stockstill. “It has large production numbers that will appeal to audience members of all ages, but it also has a dynamic family story woven in between the production numbers that will make you laugh and make you cry. It's the story of a father and son who don't really connect until it's almost too late. The emotions portrayed in this story are universal. You will leave ‘Big Fish’ a better person for having seen it.”

According to Ben Jones, director, there is an exceptionally talented group of students helping bring the show to life.

“Many of our cast members have played leading roles in previous shows here at Harding, back at their high school or at other theaters,” Jones said. “Two of our lead roles are being played by sophomores Max Ross (Edward Bloom) and Allie Scott (Sandra Bloom) who also played the lead roles in last year’s Homecoming musical, ‘Annie Get Your Gun.’ Junior Daniel Norwood, an experienced singer, is playing the adult character of Will while the younger Will is played by 8-year-old Luke Hoggard, who also performed on the Benson stage last year in the Homecoming musical.”

This is Jones’ first time directing the Homecoming musical.

“Even though I’ve directed several plays and musicals before, I’ve never directed anything on this scale,” said Jones. “The sheer size of the Benson [Auditorium] requires a substantial production team to make it a reality. I’ve been blessed to work with such a talented, hard-working cast and production crew. This story is powerful, and I’m excited to work with so many great people to bring it to life.”

There will be a live, 13-piece orchestra led by Dr. Andrew Cook to perform a new, fresh score including “Stranger,” “Be the Hero,” and “Time Stops.”

“Big Fish” is presented through special arrangement with, and all authorized performance materials supplied by, Theatrical Rights Worldwide ( www.theatricalrights.com ).

Tickets can be purchased for $15 or $18 at hardingtickets.com , the alumni and ticket office in the David B. Burks American Heritage Building or at the door. Tickets at the door will be $20. Immediately following the musical, join the cast for a meet and greet in the student center. For more information, contact the alumni and ticket office at 501-279-4276.

In addition to the annual musical, there will be several other Homecoming activities on campus.

Thursday, Oct. 18

• Lady Bison volleyball vs. Ouachita Baptist University, 6 p.m., Rhodes-Reaves Field House

Friday, Oct. 19

• Homecoming art show, 8 a.m.-7:30 p.m., Stevens Art Galleries

• Scholastic Book Fair, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Brackett Library

• Harding Academy dedication and ribbon cutting in front of the elementary school, 9:30 a.m.

• Good News Singers, 4 p.m., C.L. Kay Plaza in front of the Benson Auditorium

• Bison 3K GLOW Run, 9 p.m., Bison Park Lawn in front of the Ganus Activities Complex, race info. and registration at runsignup.com/bisonglowrun

Saturday, Oct. 20

• Homecoming art show, 10:45 a.m.-5 p.m., Stevens Art Galleries

• Belles and Beaux, 11 a.m., Administration Auditorium

• Pied Pipers children’s theatre troupe, 11-11:45 a.m., Heritage Auditorium

• Harding family picnic and giant tailgate celebration, 11 a.m.-1:45 p.m., Bison Park in front of Ganus Activities Complex

• Scholastic Book Fair, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Brackett Library

• Bison football vs. Northwestern Oklahoma State University, 2 p.m., First Security Stadium