James & the Giant Peach debuted last week at ZACH Theatre and is already getting great reviews from audiences. This musical show for families is based on Roald Dahl’s classic book, and is the largest show ever undertaken by the ZACH Theatre for Family Series. The production runs through April 10 on the Kleberg Stage. Our Content Manager had the chance to take her three sons to the opening night performance. Read all about their experience and scroll below to enter to win a 4-pack of tickets!
Photo by Kirk Tuck
My kids and I had really been looking forward to this show when we heard it had big production numbers, huge set pieces and puppets, too. But we were most curious to know… Could ZACH Theatre take the incredible adventure of Roald Dahl’s book and really capture its magic on stage? Yep, they sure did!
It was clear to see that this show had a team of immensely creative talents putting it all together. Directed and choreographed by Abe Reybold, the show featured a wonderful cast of actors. We were charmed by sweet, loveable characters such as Lady Bug (played by Jessica O’Brien) and Earthworm (played by Gustavo Gomez) while we also loved to laugh at the sinister yet hilarious Spiker and Sponge (played by Amber Quick and Kim Stacy).
Photo by Kirk Tuck
In the story of James and the Giant Peach, James is introduced to a magic potion that grows a peach to be as large as a house. The peach is invaded with a variety of talking insects that become James’ friends. The peach literally rolls them on adventures to the sea and back to land, with lots of drama along the way.
photo by Kirk Tuck
The element of the production that my kids and I found ourselves chatting about most was how the set and props were used in such imaginative ways. There were many versions of the peach itself, a really cool scene in which seagulls felt as they were flying down from the sky, and a great use of puppetry to show scenes that weren’t possible to fit within the theater.
photo by Kirk Tuck
The show is recommended for ages 5 and up, and if you’re trying to decide whether it’s age-appropriate for your kids, a best bet is to read the book first. While the production is not scary in any way, the story itself includes sadness over the loss of James’ parents as well as the mean-spirited nature of his aunts. We will note that there is an intermission for kids who need potty breaks and a chance to get their wiggles out mid-show. And concessions are offered at the theatre for purchase. After the show, kids are invited to meet the actors in the lobby!
James and the Giant Peach is now playing on weekends for the public as well as for school field trips during the week. Weekend shows take place on Saturdays at 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. and on select Sundays at 2 p.m. There will be an Autism/Sensory-Friendly performance on Saturday, February 27 at 11 a.m.
Tickets are $25, which you can purchase online here or by calling ZACH’s box office at 512-476-0541 x1.
Photo by Kirk Tuck
–> Ticket Giveaway: We have a family 4-pack of tickets to give away to a lucky reader! Enter below for the chance to win a tickets to the show on Saturday, March 5 at 11 a.m.
*Entering the giveaway will add you to the Do512 Family email list, where we let you know about the best Austin family events each week.
This giveaway is now closed. Thanks to all who entered.
