Show synopsis:

Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, Big Fish is a story of family and connection spanning decades.  Will Bloom is a soon-to-be parent struggling to connect with his own father, Edward. Driven by his looming fatherhood and Edward’s sickness, Will tries harder and harder to get to the truth behind his father’s larger-than-life stories. But as he digs, the line between reality and fantasy blurs in this musical overflowing with heart and humor. 

Rehearsals will begin on Saturday, September 10.

The rehearsal schedule will be provided in advance of the first rehearsal based on performer availability.

The production runs November 4 – December 4, 2022, with performances Thursday – Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm. There is no performance on Thanksgiving, November 24. No conflicts with performance dates will be permitted. Please note that performers are asked to also be available December 8-12 should any performances be canceled due to COVID.

All performers are guaranteed a $100 honorarium to cover the costs of transportation. Note that this is strictly a non-union production.

Auditions will be held Saturday, July 30th from 11am-1pm and Monday, August 1st from 6-9pm. Please prepare a 16-bar cut of a song in a similar style to the show that features your voice and your storytelling skills. The show requires strong storytellers who are also vocalists. If you would like to sing from the show, you may. Stylistically, consider folk music rather than musical theatre. Please provide your own sheet music. An accompanist will be provided.

To arrange an audition, please submit this form: https://form.jotform.com/221944641304148. The audition form collects your information — including any known conflicts with the rehearsal dates — and also allows you to select an audition appointment.

Callbacks will be held on Saturday, August 6th from 10am-1pm.

Auditions and callbacks will be held in person at Coronado Playhouse, 1835 Strand Way, Coronado, CA 92118.

If you have any questions not answered in this announcement or are unavailable for auditions but wish to be considered, please email audition@coronadoplayhouse.com. 

COVID-19 NOTICE: For the protection of our staff and volunteers, all cast and production team members must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or be prepared to demonstrate a viable medical or religious exemption. Additionally, all artists are expected to conduct their own COVID tests and share their results in advance of rehearsals and again in advance of performances. Additional testing may be required should someone become sick during the production.

Coronado Playhouse is committed to inclusivity, and encourages ALL members of our community to submit, particularly members of communities who have historically been excluded or underrepresented — including but not limited to artists of color, Native American and Indigenous artists, women, non-binary and gender non-conforming artists, LGBTQ+ artists, and artists with disabilities. 

CHARACTER BREAKDOWN

(Note that all roles shall be played by adults over 18 unless specified otherwise.)

Edward Bloom: A charming and charismatic storyteller. His wild tales drove a wedge between him and his son, but he is determined to rewrite the ending. Nearing the end of his life, he tries to reconnect with his son before it is too late. Character is portrayed through all ages of his life, so an actor capable of creating a strong character is needed. Needs to be a strong mover and singer. Not required, but guitar is a plus. Baritone/Tenor C#3-G4

Will Bloom: Josephine’s husband. Confronted by his own impending fatherhood, Will longs to cut through the stories and see who his father truly is. Whereas Edward’s head is always in the clouds, Will is grounded and pragmatic. He wants to connect with his father before he dies, but he slowly comes to realize that the only way is through his father’s tales. Will must be a strong actor and singer. Character does not dance much, but is on the stage for almost the entire show —stamina is a must. Tenor C#3-G4

Young Will (*young actors age 8-18 will be considered for this role*): The embodiment of Will’s past. Portrays young Will, and eventually Will’s son. No heavy dancing is required, but they will have a lot of movement. Actor may serve as ensemble in other scenes. Tenor

Josephine Bloom: News correspondent. Will’s wife, and voice of reason. She tries to act as a bridge between Will and his father. Is often with Will digging through Edward’s stories. Mix/Belt to C#5

Karl the Giant: A tender-hearted giant with a head for business. He is the first friend Edward makes on his journey. Perceived as large and frightening, he really just wants to be understood.    Bass A3-D4

Amos Calloway: The scheming and conniving, yet ultimately loveable ringleader of the circus Edward joins. Helps Edward on his quest for love. Might be a werewolf. Baritone C3-F5

Don Price: Edward’s arrogant and foul-tempered rival. He later becomes mayor of Edward’s hometown. Strong comedic skills are a must. Baritone C3-F#4

The Witch: The being that sets Edward’s journey in motion. The witch acts as a spiritual guide to Edward on his quest. High Belt F3-F5

Jenny Hill: Edward’s high school sweetheart, and later an enigmatic woman who holds the key to unlocking his past. Performer must have solid acting range with this character. Mix Belt to E5

Girl in the Water: A mermaid! She appears often throughout Edward’s quest, beckoning him to his final goal. Must be a strong dancer. Mix/Belt to C#5

Zacky Price: Don’s dweeby little brother. Must have strong physical comedy skills. Baritone/Tenor up to F#