BIG FISH to Open at Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center

The Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center presents esteemed screenwriter John August's poignant musical BIG FISH from April 15 through May 21, 2017.

BIG FISH is based on the novel by Daniel Wallace and the Columbia Motion Picture written by John August. Music and lyrics are by Tony nominee Andrew Lippa. The show centers on charismatic Edward Bloom, whose impossible stories of his epic adventures frustrate his son, Will. As Edward's final chapter approaches, Will embarks on his own journey to find out who his father really is, revealing the man behind the myth, the truth from the tall tales.

BIG FISH enjoyed a brief Broadway run back in 2013 at which time it was cited as "Overflowing with heart, humor and spectacular stagecraft, BIG FISH is an extraordinary musical that reminds us why we love going to the theatre - for an experience that's richer, funnier and BIGGER than life itself."

Lyricist Andrew Lippa describes BIG FISH as "a love story about father and his love for his son and a love story about a man and his love for his wife." His writing counterpart, John August, explains the story as the "impossibly epic, elaborate, ornate story that couldn't possibly be true, but you really wish it were true."

Bill Taylor, one of the show's producers claims it is "a fantastic blend of humanity and imagination, and funny as well. It reflects and parallels life." But probably the best description of the show comes from Norbert Leo Butz who played Edward Bloom on Broadway, "BIG FISH is a good time and food for the soul," promising, "You will be spellbound!"

Welcomed back to the stage is a longtime favorite at SVCAC, Will Shupe, in the lead role of Edward Bloom. Shupe has appeared in such favorites as Assassins and Fiddler on the Roof for SVCAC, Peter and the Starcatcher for Actors Repertory Theater and will also be reprising his role of the emcee in Cabaret later this season for SVCAC. Joining Shupe are Andrew Allen as Will, Natasha Bloom as Jenny, Marcello Silva as Young Will, Kevin Ellis as Amos, Conchita Belisle Newman as Sandra, Jen Ridgway as Josephine, Christopher Spangler as Karl, Philip McBride as Zachey and Dr. Bennett, Jared Price as Don, Savannah Leigh as the Witch, and ensemble members Bryce Brady, Tori Cusack, Ashley Maimes, Ralph Santos, Claudia Stone-Sheppard and Megan Tisler.

The creative team includes director Fred Helsel, choreographer Becky Castells, music and vocal director Mazie Rudolph, production designer Seth Kamenow, lighting designer Lauren Wemischner, sound designer Kevin Kahm, costumer Ken Patton, and stage manager Jerry Blackburn.

Experience life lived in full bloom ... don't miss BIG FISH.

Tickets are available online at www.simi-arts.org or by calling the box office at 805-583-7900 or at the box office at 3050 E. Los Angeles Avenue between Noon and 6:00 pm Wednesdays through Saturdays. Tickets are $25 for Adults, $22 for Seniors 60 and above and Students and $18 for Children 12 & Under. Student Rush Tickets are available at 10 minutes prior to curtain for $10 each.

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