James and the Giant Peach - Roald Dahl

Wed 5th - Sat 8th January 2011

The Crescent Studio 

‘Shut out all normal surroundings and go flying away to a magical world where everything is enchanting and fantastic’- Roald Dahl. Stage2 presented one of the most magical stories from one of the best-loved children’s writers of all time. The closeness of the audience in The Crescent Studio, the young age of the cast and the fabulous costumes and props, all made by young people at our Summer School, fired the imagination and brought this fantastic tale vividly to life. 

“As the audience entered we were privy to the gibbering of Aunts Spiker and Sponge (Chloe Jones and Jacoba Williams)...Khalid Daley as James, had the audience feeling very sorry for him and the austere life he had with his aunts... All the insects played their parts well and kept the pace going throughout the second half. There was really a first rate performance by Aidan Richards as Earthworm who really did object to being the bait for the seagulls... The large chorus all contributed to the production throughout, viewing the giant peach, as fish, clouds, sharks and seagulls and the sounds created by the chorus of the hailstones, was most impressive... With atmospheric lighting and sound, an absolutely fantastic peach and a lot of enthusiasm, a good time was had by all.” Curtain Call Magazine

This production was enhanced by the use of the studio balcony, platforms and alcoves - including a flock of graceful seagulls flying above the audience on the balconies, beautifully showing the peach’s ascent from water to the air. A three metre large peach, which at first, concealed all seven insects also revolved and was directed by the insects to really create a sense of magic on stage. The bubbly and thrilling end scene in New York contrasted immensely to the melancholy beginning to the classic tale; with bright colours, confetti cannons and lots of new friends for James to share his story with. The production took you on James’ journey and left the audience with great content as this maltreated boy got his well-deserved happy ending.