Interview: Stephen Fox and JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH at The Growing Stage

The Growing Stage, The Children's Theatre of New Jersey, located in the Historic Palace Theatre on Route 183 in Netcong, presents the New Jersey premiere of JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH. The show runs March 11th through April 3rd with performances Friday evenings at 7:30PM, Saturday and Sunday matinees at 4:00 PM.

Based on the book by Roald Dahl, JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH, has Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul and a Book by Timothy Allen McDonald. The production is under the direction of Stephen L. Fredericks, The Growing Stage's Executive Director with musical direction by Stephen Fox and Choreography by Jillian Petrie.

Broadwayworld.com had the opportunity to interview the Musical Director for JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH, Stephen Fox.

Fox is thrilled to be musical directing his first show at The Growing Stage. He has served as musical director and conductor for many collegiate, community and professional productions. He currently serves as the conductor of the Fordham University Women's Choir and also has his own Private Voice Studio, where students have gone on to be cast in Broadway productions such as Next to Normal and How to Succeed in Business. (starring Daniel Radcliffe), as well as the first national tour of Wicked.

Tell us about your earliest interest in music.

Music has been a vital part of my life as early as I can remember. My mom always tells the story that I could sing before I could speak. True or not, both of my parents loved music and encouraged me in every musical endeavor I undertook.

Who have been some of your mentors or role models?

My first and most important role models were my elementary, middle and high school vocal teachers (Anna Royer, Donna Winch & Kathy Dunn). I was bullied a lot in school and their classrooms became my sanctuary; a place where I felt as though I belonged, was appreciated and had worth. As an undergraduate, my private voice teacher Mr. Jack M. Wilcox was the biggest influence on my life, and Dr. Peggy Dettwiler for my graduate work.

What are some of your favorite productions you have been involved in?

Certainly this production has been a highlight for me, and I'm so thrilled and honored to be a part of The Growing Stage family. Other productions that stand out for me as music director were Rodgers & Hammerstein's "Cinderella" at Queens College and Andrew Lippa's "The Wild Party" at Marymount Manhattan College.

How does teaching compliment your career as a musical director?

They go hand in hand - both are about process and discovery - and about setting standards for excellence.

Tell us a little about working with The Growing Stage?

This is my third involvement with a Mainstage production, but I've served each one in a different capacity. I was the pianist for "Really Rosie," served as rehearsal accompanist for "A Christmas Carol" and now as music director for "James and the Giant Peach." There are so many wonderful things that come with being involved here. I truly admire the entire company for their mission and what they have accomplished is nothing short of miraculous. This theater comes with a tradition of excellence and I'm beyond honored to be a small part of it.

What do you want audiences to know about JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH?

This is a score that is so much fun! Each song has a style that represents other types of musical theater styles, without feeling disjunct from another. It's also a score that is very complex yet accessible for every age, without "talking down" to its audience.

For the future?

I've just been asked to musical direct the last show of the season - this time working with the great Danny Campos. I will also be serving as musical director for the Light Opera of New Jersey's summer production of "The Mystery of Edwin Drood."

To learn more about Stephen Fox, visit his web site at http://stephendfox.wix.com/stephenfoxvoice.

The Growing Stage will have a special Opening Night featuring a post-show talkback with the company. All Friday tickets are $15 and Saturday and Sunday tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and $15 for children. To purchase tickets, please visit www.growingstage.com or call the Box Office at (973) 347-4946. Group rates and Birthday Party packages are available.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of The Growing Stage