Carousel Theatre for Young People Presents JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH, Beginning Today

Carousel Theatre for Young People (CTYP) presents a heartwarming new vision of Roald Dahl's timeless classic James and the Giant Peach, making its Vancouver premiere today, December 6, 2014 to January 4, 2015 at The Waterfront Theatre on Granville Island. Developed by Tony-nominated songwriters Benj Pasek & Justin Paul, the whimsical tale follows James Trotter who is swept away on an extraordinary journey with an unlikely contingent of insect friends.

"James and the Giant Peach is beautiful narrative - with important messages about friendship, family, and home woven throughout it," says Carole Higgins, director of the production and Artistic Director of CTYP. "This new musical production - whose world premiere took place in Seattle only last fall - animates the delightful tale in a magical fashion, setting it in motion with an absolutely captivating score. This is a piece that will capture the imagination of children and adults alike throughout the holiday season and into the New Year."

The story follows young James Trotter, who has been shipped off to live with his wretched aunts. All seems lost, until he discovers a magical giant peach inhabited by fantastical creatures. Together with Grasshopper, Ladybug, Centipede, Spider and Earthworm, James embarks on an astonishing adventure, sailing across the sea to far away lands.

The production features a dazzling line-up of Vancouver musical theatre talent, including Patti Allan, Scott Bellis, Kaylee Harwood, Julian Lokash, Makayla Moore, Alex Rose, Deb Williams and Jonathan Winsby. James and the Giant Peach is directed by Carole Higgins, with choreography by Kayla Dunbar and musical direction by Steven Greenfield.

The new musical score comes courtesy of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the Tony-nominated duo behind A Christmas Story, The Musical, DogFight, and Edges, with book by Timothy Allen McDonald.

To celebrate the production's opening, Carousel Theatre for Young People will host Pasek and Paul in Vancouver from December 7 to 9. The duo will hold a series of masterclasses (currently sold out) on musical theatre performance coupled with a special concert - An Evening with Pasek and Paul - on December 8 at The Waterfront Theatre.

Tickets for James and the Giant Peach and An Evening with Pasek and Paul are available for purchase online at: carouseltheatre.ca or by phone at (604) 685-6217.

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