TexARTS Presents JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH, JR.

TexARTS Musical Theatre Academy is pleased to present Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach, Jr. with words and music by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul and book by Timothy Allen McDonald. The production will run April 6-7 & 13-14 at the Kam & James Morris Theatre at TexARTS.

This production kicks off TexARTS Academy's spring season. It is directed and choreographed by Education Manager, Cassie Eckerman and music directed by Austin Kimble. Eckerman is a seasoned director, choreographer, and instructor. This is her 6th show to direct at TexARTS.

"James and the Giant Peach, Jr. is a narrative about overcoming hardship and finding confidence in who you are," said Eckerman. "Wrap up a poignant story with plenty of slapstick comic relief, and that's our show! It'll have you laughing and crying in spades."

Based on the book by Roald Dahl, James and the Giant Peach was made into the 1996 hit movie produced by Tim Burton.

"The arresting and dynamic visuals, offbeat details and light-as-air storytelling make James and the Giant Peach solid family entertainment" says Rotten Tomatoes' critical consensus of the film.

After its box office success, Timothy Allen McDonald secured the rights to the story and hired Pasek and Paul, a hit songwriting duo, to create the score. Pasek and Paul are known for the Tony Award-winning Dear Evan Hansen.

The TexARTS Musical Theatre Academy cast is made up of 15 local students ages 10-15. The students meet Saturday mornings to learn music, choreography, and lines. The nine-week rehearsal process culminates in a fully produced musical performance. The creative team includes costume design by Cristal Martinez, scenic design by Cindy Paige, and prop design by April Hudson.

Reserved seats for James and the Giant Peach, Jr. are $17 and can be purchased at www.tex-arts.org or by calling TexARTS Box Office at 512-852-9079 x101.

All performances will be held at Kam & James Morris Theatre at TexARTS' Erin Doherty Studios, 2300 Lohman's Spur, Suite #160, Lakeway, TX. Parking is free.

TexARTS is a nonprofit performing and visual arts organization that offers year-round classes in acting, voice, visual arts and dance as well as completely staged youth and professional productions. For more information about TexARTS, visit our website tex-arts.org.