Big Fish, Tall Stories
The line between myth and reality is thoroughly blurred in Big Fish, a magical new Broadway musical that arrives at the Lyric Theatre this July. It follows a story of reconciliation between an estranged son and his father, who has a penchant for spinning unbelievable yarns about his youth. Stuffed full of fantastical creatures and intricate designs, Big Fish is one of the most visually inventive musicals out there.
Based on the novel by Daniel Wallace, this musical boasts a book John August, who previously adapted the story for Tim Burton's charming 2003 movie version. The score comes courtesy of Andrew Lippa, perhaps best known for his Tony nominated work on The Addams Family musical. It first opened on Broadway in 2013 at the Neil Simon Theatre, and has since gone onto become a fixture of local theaters nationwide.
What is Big Fish About?
On the eve of his marriage, Will Bloom asks his father not to tell any of his 'tall tales' at the wedding. Edward Bloom is renowned for his fantastic stories of mermaids and giant, which some people think endearing but Will finds embarrassing, becoming increasingly frustrated with his father's seeming inability to stick to the truth. As the big day arrives, we flash back through Edward's life story and discover that his stories always hold an element of truth to them.
