One of my favorite things about creating content is appreciating great storytelling wherever I find it. That’s why I’m continuing my Content Review series. Whether it’s a movie, a Broadway show, a local theatre production, a commercial, or even a product, I love experiencing content that makes people feel something.
In July, I had the opportunity to see Big Fish performed by Moezart Theatre Productions, and it was such a fun evening. I’ve loved the Big Fish movie for years (and only recently learned it was based on a book- which is now officially on my reading list). It’s imaginative, heartfelt, and honestly one of those stories that’s difficult to explain if you’ve never seen it.
That also means it’s probably one of the harder stories to bring to life on stage.
I walked away impressed.
What Worked
First, I want to commend this cast. They did a wonderful job telling a story that isn’t exactly straightforward. One thing that stood out to me was that this production featured mostly adult actors. I know Moezart is well known for many of its youth productions, so it was fun seeing such a strong adult cast leading this show. There were a few younger performers as well, including Wyatt Ponder, who played young Will Bloom. He fit the role beautifully.
One of my favorite moments in the entire production was Edward Bloom’s first encounter with Sandra at the circus. If you’ve seen the movie, you know exactly the scene I’m talking about. It’s such a magical moment, and I thought the cast found a really creative way to portray it on stage. It captured the wonder of the story while making smart use of the theatre setting.
The music throughout the production was excellent and added so much emotion to the storytelling. I especially enjoyed Brenden Lawrence as adult Will Bloom. His performance felt genuine, his voice was very good, and he carried the emotional weight of the father-son relationship really well.
McKenna Kilcup, who played Josephine Bloom, was another standout. She was a wonderful supporting character, and the chemistry between her and Brenden Lawrence felt completely natural.
Of course, Grant Kilcup had an enormous job as Edward Bloom. He spent much of the show on stage and seamlessly shifted between the older Edward and the adventurous younger version of the character. That’s no small task, and I thought he handled it beautifully.
I also have to mention Amber Hale as Sandra Bloom. Her voice was absolutely beautiful and brought so much warmth to the production. And then there was Ted Webbe as Karl the Giant. He absolutely stole the show. Every time Karl appeared, the audience couldn’t help but respond. The production was directed by Michael Kary with assistant director Megan Mayo, and their creativity really showed throughout the evening.
One Area The Could Have Been Better
The only place I found myself wanting just a little more was the ending. To be fair, I think this has more to do with the story itself than this particular production. The ending of Big Fish is incredibly imaginative in the movie. It’s emotional, symbolic, and filled with movement and larger-than-life imagery.
Before the final scene even began, I found myself wondering, “How are they going to pull this off on stage?”
Considering how difficult that sequence is to adapt, I think the cast did a really good job. Personally, I would have loved to see Edward and Will move around the stage a bit more during those final moments, simply because I think it would have heightened the emotion even further. And, it would have heightened their escape from the hospital just a little bit more.
But that’s a very small critique in an otherwise thoughtfully produced performance.
What Content Creators Can Learn
One reason I enjoy reviewing theatre is because live performances remind us of something every content creator should remember:
A great story doesn’t depend on a big budget.
Community theatre doesn’t have Hollywood special effects. It doesn’t have endless camera angles or CGI. Instead, it relies on creativity, strong performances, thoughtful direction, and genuine emotion. As creators, it’s easy to believe we need more equipment, more followers, or more resources before we can create something meaningful. Productions like this are a reminder that people connect with stories first. Everything else is simply a tool to help tell them.
Should You Support Moezart Theatre Productions?
Absolutely.
Beyond putting on quality productions, Moezart Theatre Productions exists to provide performing arts education to the community in a Christ-honoring environment that encourages leadership, confidence, and friendship. As someone who loves supporting local arts, I left thankful that organizations like this exist in our community.
It was a wonderful evening spent with friends, and I was grateful for the invitation from Havilah Weaver, Moezart’s Artistic Director.
If you’ve ever considered checking out local community theatre, this is a great place to start. Although Big Fish has now closed, Moezart’s next production is The Neverland Project, with tickets scheduled to go on sale this fall.
I’ll definitely be keeping an eye on what’s next!
My Rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5 out of 5 stars)
A creative, heartfelt production with a talented cast, beautiful music, and imaginative staging that honors a beloved story while reminding us why local theatre matters.
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Photo credit: Stephanie McGuire Photography (@stephmcguirephotography). Thank you for allowing me to share these beautiful production photos.
FAQ
Is Big Fish a movie or a book?
Both! Big Fish began as a novel by Daniel Wallace before becoming the beloved Tim Burton film and later a stage musical.
What is Moezart Theatre Productions?
Moezart Theatre Productions is a nonprofit community theatre that provides performing arts education in a Christ-honoring environment while fostering leadership, confidence, and friendship.
Is Big Fish a good stage musical?
Yes. While it’s a challenging story to adapt, this production captured the heart and imagination of the original through creative staging and strong performances.
Can anyone participate in Moezart Theatre Productions?
Moezart offers performing arts opportunities for the community. Check their website for upcoming auditions, classes, volunteer opportunities, and future productions.
