Andi Wild (as Earthworm), Mia Beltran (as Ladybug), Lexy Osborn (as James), Alexis Trotti (as Spider), and Taleah Abolt (as Derrick). Photo courtesy of Yuba City High School

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - Yuba City High School will be presenting the endearing musical “James and the Giant Peach” on Friday and Saturday nights, March 15, 16, 22 & 23 at 7:30 and Sunday afternoons on March 17 and 24 at 2:00 pm.  YCHS Backlot Theater is located on the east side of the campus off of Park Avenue.  Ample parking is available at the site. 

The show is based on the novel by Roald Dahl with words and music by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul and book by Timothy Allen McDonald.  The production will be directed by Linda Robinson, who is also the Musical Director.  The orchestra will be directed by Corey Kersting.  Ms. Robinson explains, “This delightful and fun production is very different than the movie.  It is a brand-new take of the Roald Dahl classic which features an exciting and tuneful musical score that will thrill all ages in the audience.  I believe the musical is destined to be a classic.”

Cast and Orchestra for "James and the Giant Peach" rehearse. Photo courtesy of Yuba City High School

The cast of fourteen will feature Lexy Osburn as James Trotter; Taleah Abolt and Cameron Kersting sharing the role of Ladahlord; Elizabeth Hansen as Sponge; Chloe Valdez as Spiker; Kelsy Ulrey as Grasshopper; Cheyenne Her and Mia Beltran sharing the role of Ladybug; Alexis Trotti as Spider; Andi Wild as Earthworm; Derick Hannover and Taleah Abolt sharing the role of Centipede.  Completing the Ensemble will be Arianna Glasglow DaisyLin Horner, and Brooke Kersting. 

The musical tells the story of a young orphan, James, who, through some miraculous circumstances, finds himself inside a giant peach along with a group of friendly insects.  Together they seek ways to become friends, help each other and find freedom.  Lexy Osburn who plays James says, “I believe anyone can connect with the emotional storytelling in this show.  It paints vibrant pictures for both children and adults to enjoy together as a family.”

Cameron Kersting (as Ladahlord) and Lexy Osborn (as James) share a song and dance. Photo courtesy of Yuba City High School

Cameron Kersting, who plays Ladahlord, states “The most fun part of the musical is all the songs.  A lot of the songs are very jazzy and upbeat, and the choreography is fun as well.  This is a great show for both kids and adults. 

You’ve got the goofy villains, the charismatic sidekicks, and, of course, the brave strong lead.  For adults, the plot covers deeper themes of loss, recovery from loss and finding your way home, wherever that may be.” 

Kelsy Ulrey, who plays Grasshopper, encourages people to attend the show “because the story has a really powerful message that everyone can understand and relate to.  Seeing the actors tell the story on stage right in front of you has a very different feeling than seeing something like a film.  There is a special magic between the actors and the audience.”

Osburn promises, “Anyone leaving our production will have had a ‘remark-u-lous-ly, fan-tas-ma-rific’ evening!” 

Tickets are available at the door for $15 or reserved loge seats for $20.