A fantastical musical adventure inspired by a father’s incredible stories. Based on the celebrated novel by Daniel Wallace and the acclaimed film directed by Tim Burton, Big Fish tells the story of Edward Bloom, a charming traveling salesman who lives life to its fullest, and then some. Overflowing with heart and humor, Big Fish is the extraordinary story that reminds us why we love going to the theatre.
Big Fish is presented through special arrangement with TRW Plays. trwplays.com
A buoyant feel-good show for the whole family.
County Players is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Actors of all sizes, body types, races, ethnicities, gender identities, abilities, and experience levels are encouraged to audition. No roles are precast, all roles are available. Age ranges are not literal, but what actors can convincingly play on stage. Please keep in mind that this is a very ensemble-heavy show and most, if not all, cast members will be used extensively throughout the show.
Please be prepared to sing 16-32 bars in the style of the show (approx. 1 minute in length). They should also bring sheet music with them for the accompanist.
Please Dress comfortably with appropriate shoes or sneakers for a movement/dance audition.
Readings will be provided for acting audition.
Edward Bloom – Actor to play man in late 40s-60s and younger versions of himself, Bari-tenor (G2-G4). A charming, charismatic storyteller. A devoted yet absent father nearing the end of his life and wanting to reconnect with his son. He is comfortable in his own skin, but hopes for Will’s approval. He loves his wife, his son, and telling stories.
Sandra Bloom – Actor to play a woman in her late 40s/55s and also younger versions of herself, Soprano with mix/belt (G3-E5). Patient, calm, the perfect balance to Edward’s enthusiasm. She adores and appreciates Edward and tries to bring reconciliation to her husband and son, both of whom she loves.
Will Bloom – Actor to play a man in his late 20s/early 30s. Tenor (C#3-G4). An earnest, serious, thoughtful young man. Analytical, “realist”, dry-humored. Doesn’t believe his father’s stories and after learning Edward is sick, he seeks to find the truth in his father’s past. He is a successful professional, new husband (to Josephine), and expectant father.
Young Will – Youth actor to play an 8-to-12-year-old boy. Edward’s son, precocious and intelligent. Intrigued by his father’s stories, but already starts to doubt their truth.
Josephine Bloom – Actor to play a woman in her late 20s/early 30s. Will’s wife. Successful, intelligent, kind and understanding, new bride and expectant mother. Josephine acts as the bridge between Edward and Will, explaining the deeper meaning of the stories.
Karl the Giant – Actor to play man in his late 20s/30s. Bass. Edward’s best friend. Karl is shy, exceptionally intelligent, hermit-like, and has a quiet charisma. He needs a booming voice and large personality. Taller actors preferred. May be asked to work with stilts.
Amos Calloway – Actor to play adult man 35+. Baritone/Character Voice. Amos is the rather eccentric, quirky owner of the circus that employs young Edward. He also happens to be a werewolf.
Witch – Actor to play adult woman, any age 25+. Mezzo/Belt. Commanding performer with great confidence and storytelling ability. Mysterious and knowledgeable. Convinces Edward to pursue a big life without fear.
Jenny Hill – Actor to play a young woman in high school and a woman in her 40s/50s. Mezzo/Belt. Edward’s devoted, first girlfriend. She is beautiful, a dreamer, maybe a little naive. As an adult, more disillusioned, more dignified.
Don Price – Actor to play young man in high school/college, and as an adult (possibly two actors). Baritone. Older snarky bully. Sandra’s first fiancé.
Zacky Price – Actor to play a young man in high school/college, and as an adult (possibly 2 actors). Tenor. Nerdy brother and shadow of Don Price.
Doctor Bennett – Actor to play man in 50s-70s. Warm, kind, but frank. Edward’s friend and physician.
Ashton Mayor – Actor to play an adult man 35+. Typical small town good-guy mayor personality.
Red Fang – World War II villian/assassin, any gender, teen or adult. Looking for actor with gymnastics/martial arts/dance ability.
Alabama Lambs –Actors to play young women in their teens/20s. Young Sandra’s friends. Perform with Sandra at the circus. Strong singing and dance skills, especially tap.
Fisherman – Actor to play an adult man 18+.
Others/Ensemble:
Assorted ages. All sing and dance. Some individuals will do extensive dance, but not all. Most have solo lines, all have featured moments and will pop up throughout the entire show. Strong dance skills preferred, especially tap. Please also let us know if you have any gymnastics and/or circus arts skills.
Including, but not limited to:
- The Mermaid
- Witches
- Circus Performers
- Will’s Son
- Residents
- University Students
- Young Scouts
- Dancing Fire (hopefully en pointe)
- USO Girls (tap dancers)
- General Patterson
- Red Fang, WWII villain WWII Soldiers Cowboys/Saloon Girls Old West Judge
- Doctors and Nurses
