Review: BIG FISH Is Storytelling At Its Best

Theatre is about telling stories. BIG FISH at Red Mountain Theatre Company Cabaret Theatre is full of stories, both large and small. It tells the stories of the Bloom family, both the exaggerated ones of Edward, the father and the real ones of Will, the son. Or are they all real- you be the judge.

For those of you that are used to the big sets and props of a RMTC show, be prepared for the "less is more" approach of this show. But you will never miss them. Between the interesting stories, the amazing talent and the emotional performances, you will have all you want in a production.

There were lots of kids in the audience on opening night and I think the things that brought a tear to my old eyes probably went over the heads of most of the youngsters, but there are plenty of stories and exciting characters that will keep the kids involved in the show.

Amy Johnson as the Witch is a local favorite who, in this production, is finally unleashed so that we see just how much range and power she has onstage. She commands the stage and her voice soars like I have never heard it before.

Nick Crawford is another local favorite who is hilarious in this performance. Always there to fill in the most fun parts in a show, Crawford does a great job in this production.

My favorite voice had to be Jeremy Seiner as Will Bloom. Although this is his first trip to Alabama, (and I know folks who take issue with so much out of town talent) I have to say his energy and amazing vocals made me forgive that he is not a "local" talent.

Jeff Pierce plays Edward Bloom. On opening night I felt he was a bit hesitant at the beginning of the show, which did not fit his character. He seemed most tentative when he had scenes with Samuel Oliver, who played 11 year old Will. I have to think that was a character choice since Bloom is always leaving his son to pursue his career as a traveling salesman and feels badly to just share a tall tale and leave. However, Pierce's voice is consistently excellent and he is certainly a likeable character.

Ladies, this is definitely a show to which you can bring your husbands. It will have even more meaning for them, I feel, as they see themselves in the young boy being left behind as Dad goes to make a living. Maybe they will identify with a dad torn between supporting the family or being there with them, wanting to be the hero and knowing they are disappointing people every time they leave town to work.They might also find themselves wondering which of their own family's tall tales are real and which are only that- a made up story.

Family, faith in yourself, and pure entertainment make up a very memorable evening when you see BIG FISH. The show runs through October 4 and is worth making the time to see. Go to redmountaintheatre.org or call 205-324-2424.

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