The bond between father and son is somewhat cliche, but in the musical “Big Fish”, the importance of that relationship is explored in an unorthodox way. This spring, Millbrook High School Theatre performed “Big Fish” for their spring musical. The musical follows father Edward Bloom [Jayden Paulson] and his son Will [Kael Alley]. Bloom has a very flamboyant, mystical personality. He indulges in fairy tales and thrilling adventures all through storytelling. His son Will grows up hearing all of these tales and eventually gets sick of them. When tragedy strikes Edward Bloom, his son Will goes on a journey to uncover the truth in all the stories he grew up with.
Sadie Kelsey played Jenny Hill, high school girlfriend of Edward Bloom. Their relationship in the show was significant as it was a grand high school love. When Edward Bloom left his hometown to explore the world, he promised Jenny Hill that he would return to her. However he never did, he then later married Sandra Templeton, played by Senior Ava Moore. As Sandra and Edward raised their son Will, he grew a distaste towards his father. Motivating him to be everything his father was not, which is what the plot explored.
One of the great aspects of Millbrook Theatre is how inclusive it is. Wesley Campbell is a six foot 9 inches tall senior who plays Karl the Giant. This is his first time participating in an acting role in a musical, “I’m having fun, Mr. Anthony is having less fun because I’m very clunky!” Mr. Anthony had something to say about this, “He was so funny. Working with him was really fun and getting him out of his comfort zone.” Mr. Anthony is the director of the Millbrook Dance program and choreographer of “Big Fish”. Dottie Faircloth, a member of the dance ensemble, is appreciative of her time in Millbrook productions, “It’s super fun to do it because it’s such a small special group of people that makes our own little community. The majority of us are seniors so it’s really special we have all the same people to finish off our time together.”
Kael Alley plays one of the leads, Will Bloom, in the show. He’s a graduating senior finishing his seventh Millbrook production. As a dedicated member of the Millbrook Theatre family, this last show is sentimental for him, “I’ve done theatre every single year at Millbrook, it’s been such a big part of my life here. I’m definitely sad to leave.” Alley’s experience in theatre all came from Millbrook’s program. With no prior experience, he first joined the theatre program in Millbrook’s 2023 spring musical “Guys & Dolls.” Alley is a powerful tenor, with a sound quality that draws a listener in. While exiting a “Big Fish” rehearsal I stopped in my tracks the moment I heard Alley sing. I knew then the musical would be a hit. For Alley it’s not only the personal growth he’s gained but the friendships that have blossomed through musical productions, “My favorite part of participating in the shows each year is just the chance to meet new people. The best moments are when the cast is just chilling in the choir room laughing about something random!” It was evident the cast had a joyful composure, when I entered the choir room I immediately heard piano keys, giggles, and bright harmonies. Alley will be attending UNCW in the fall, where he hopes to continue his theatre education and performance.
This special production was filled with heart, joy, and a whole lot of high notes!
