Coshocton High School presents “James and the Giant Peach”
Cole Fisher as grasshopper, Tyler Huston as centipede, Graham Beaumont as earthworm, Kenzie Potter as James (kneeling), Lillian Whitcomb as ladybug, and Halley Jones as spider in the Coshocton High School’s production of “James and the Giant Peach”.
COSHOCTON – Coshocton High School’s drama club will be presenting Roald Dahl’s “James and the Giant Peach – The Musical” on Thursday, March 8 at 7 p.m., Friday, March 9 at 8 p.m., and Saturday, March 9 at 8 p.m. in the CHS McKinley Auditorium.
“We liked the music,” said director Kris Hardesty. “We really liked the music, and Roald Dahl is really popular right now, so we thought it would be fun to do.”
When James’ parents fall victim to an unfortunate rhinoceros accident at the zoo, he is left an orphan and raised by two spinster aunts, Sponge (Sarah Heading) and Spiker (Christa Lain) who both treat him horribly.
One day, James stumbles upon a magic potion, which he accidently spills onto a peach tree and the bugs that live inside. The peach grows to unimaginable proportions and the bugs are now life-sized insects. The bugs, the peach, and James all go on a magical adventure, pursued by James’ aunts.
“I hope the audience enjoys the magical element of the play,” said Hardesty. “The fact that we’re talking about giant bugs and a peach. It’s the idea that you can kind of get lost in the magic.”
The play is being choreographed by Dawn Tumblin.
“She just took up the choreography, but she also helps me out in a lot more ways,” said Hardesty. “She does a lot more than what she’s contracted to do.”
Although the play itself hasn’t been too much of a challenge for the students, Hardesty has had some challenges with rehearsals.
Sponge (Sarah Heading) and Spiker (Christa Lain)
“We have the same challenges as all of the three schools in the county face,” she said. “We have kids who are involved and are busy kids, so time management has been a challenge. Also keeping the kids healthy. The flu ran through the cast and I think we’re just now back to full cast.”
Even though the kids are busy, they still get involved in the plays because of their love of the stage.
“This is a club, not a class,” said Hardesty. “These kids are showing up purely because of their love of theatre.”
Three students in the play have such a love of theatre that they have decided to pursue theatre as a career.
“Acting is one thing I’m good at,” said Cole Fisher, who is portraying grasshopper, “I know I don’t see myself doing anything else.”
Fisher has been accepted into a theatre academy in Los Angeles.
“Mrs. Hardesty is the best director,” said Fisher. “She’s taught me so many skills necessary for the school I’m going to. She’s been a big help.”
Heading is also going on to pursue a career on the stage.
“Storytelling has always been a huge passion of mine,” she said. “When I was younger, I never considered theatre, but the moment I started it, I felt so comfortable with it. I’m an introverted person but on stage, I feel comfortable.”
She feels Coshocton High School has been a great start to furthering her studies in theatre.
“I’ve learned that you’re not the only actor on stage,” she said. “There are other people relying on you and all the staff and other actors are there to help you, and Kris has been the best.”
Kenzie Potter who plays James had a huge feat in front of her as she portrays a 10-year-old boy.
“I made Kris’ son walk around to see how a 10 year old boy walks,” she said. “He got mad at me because he’s 13. This is all new to me. I usually play a mom, so I was really surprised when I got the part, but it was a good surprise. I’m really happy.”
Other actors are: Amanda Kittel as Ladahlord, Halley Jones as spider, Lillian Whitcomb as ladybug, Graham Beaumont as earthworm, Tyler Huston as centipede, Evelyn Hire and Bladen Johnson as understudy, Jenna Stonebraker as matron nurse, Grace Hawthorne as purse woman, Wesley Abbot as Bobby cop, Lacey Richcreek as a reporter, and Isabella Knicely as a Hollywood agent. Some of the actors play other roles throughout the play.
Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased at the door. Doors open one hour prior to the play.
Category: Arts & Entertainment
