The pre-Broadway world premiere release of Big Fish hit the BIG stage, Friday, April 19th at Chicago’s one and only Oriental theater; and it was a BIG HIT! Just 10 years after its Hollywood release, this full length feature film has been reincarnated into a new fantastic and imaginative LIVE musical! Based on the novel by Daniel Wallace, the BIG FISH musical give us a peak at the life of Will Bloom (played by Bobby Steggert), as he tries to learn of the life that his dying father once lived. Edward Bloom (played by Norbert Leo Butz), though slowly coming to terms with death, comes to Bloom once more as he relives his life with his family through the tall tales that he is so notoriously known for. The character of Edward Bloom literally pulls us, the audience, to center stage as we relives his journeys. Through song, dance, and incredibly talented musicians, this musical really delivers from beginning to end!
One part of the show that was really unique was simply how the stage was utilized throughout the performance. Instead of the musicians traditionally being set in the orchestra’s pit, musicians were set in the background of the stage, and the Orchestra’s pit was transformed into a sort of live “river” brought to life through the use of visual effects and projectors. The stage set its self was a wonder to behold. Transitions from scene to scene were flawless, and it was blatantly obvious as to how much work and rehearsal was needed to perfect this magical performance. The use of visual effects was quietly tucked away throughout as we go from a hospital bed one moment, to a circus tent, to a town the next! Big Fish is a unique performance unlike I've ever seen before on stage. Once the show started going it was easy to forget that I was merely an audience member, watching from afar. The show really almost makes you feel that you are there on stage and in the stories of Edward Bloom. Actors Norbert Leo Butz, Bobby Steggert and Kate Baldwin really take to their roles and give you an unforgettable performance. Notably, actor Norbert Butz is a lively and passionate actor with a great voice, that I think was very deserving of his role. It would be a feat to top his natural talent and remarkable performance he gives the entire show.
Big Fish is a musical for the whole family, as audiences of all ages can relate to the lives of the performers. We all have or have had a father in our lives, and if you’re anything like me; can remember the stories and tall tales our own fathers once told us. This connection to the audience’s own memories of a father is clear to me toward the end of the performance; as all I could hear from the audience (including me), was sniffling and the wiping away of tears of sadness as our main character comes to pass. It was a tear jerker toward the end, as you don’t want the performance to end! Big Fish will be playing at Chicago’s Oriental Theater from April 19th-May 5th 2013. It’s only playing for a short time; however this is a PREBroadway release and I hope that after this short release to the public that it comes back in full swing for a longer showing! Big Fish was a beautiful performance, and I honestly really enjoyed it more so than the movie! Take advantage of this limited viewing of Big Fish, and see the story told unlike never before. For more information about the show, or to purchase tickets, please visit BroadwayinChicago.com; and act fast, as BIG FISH will only be playing until May 5th.
