James and the Giant Peach has been delighting families for decades. Many will know the children’s novel written in 1961, even more will know the Disney film from 1996. Now the stage production is coming to Greenbrier Valley Theatre (GVT).
Based on one of Roald Dahl’s most recognizable and quirky stories, the musical follows James as he discovers a magic potion that grows a tremendous peach and launches him into a journey beyond his wildest imagination. Joining him is a band of singing insects as they ride the peach across the ocean towards an unlikely family bond.
Ali Wills, a senior in her final GVT Education Program production, plays Spiker, one of James’s aunts that propels him to finding the magical peach.
“Audiences will enjoy the theme of community and found-family,” says Wills. “James and the Giant Peach has such a funny way of going about it where audiences experience the heartwarming theme while still laughing at the funny songs and dances.”
Directed by Jacob Masters, James and the Giant Peach will also bring some unique twists to the stage that go beyond the original story.
“It has challenged us to grow, and think outside the box,” said Wills. “We want to think about unique ways to make the story personal to us and our theatre.”
Now entering its 56th season, Greenbrier Valley Theatre, is a mainstay and theatre destination located in Lewisburg. The arts organization has been further recognized as a “West Virginia Jewel of the Hills,” awarded the Living the Dream Service Organization Honor Roll by The Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Commission, and is a multi-year recipient of Non-Profit Business of the Year. GVT boasts a robust series of year-round programing and educational offers with the goal to enlighten, enrich, and enliven throughout the region.
James and the Giant Peach Jr. opened at GVT on Mar. 23 and runs through Apr. 1. Tickets are $17 for general seating, $15 for seniors, and $13 for students. For more information on tickets, shows, and the organization’s history, visit the theatre’s website www.gvtheatre.org or call the box office at 304-645-3838.
