Young performers’ ‘James and the Giant Peach’ to open Nov. 8
Clear Space Theatre’s Spotlight on Young Performers troupe will present “James and the Giant Peach,” based on Roald Dahl’s book of the same name, with music by Barry Pasek and Justin Paul. The show opens with performances at 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 8.
“James and the Giant Peach” is the tale of a boy, a magic potion and the insects he befriends. Plus, of course, the giant peach, which serves as both boat and food source as James and his insect friends flee the boy’s conniving aunts.
Featuring Lena Bellistri as James, the fully staged production is the culmination of the fall term of the Spotlight on Young Performers class.
Bellistri said, “What I like most about the show is the storyline. I really like the movie, and the show keeps the same plot and is mostly the same story. I really love the songs I sing with the insects – that’s probably my favorite part of getting to play James. I also enjoy getting to work with some of the older kids in the Spotlight class.”
Bellistri has been a longtime student at Clear Space Theatre’s Performing Arts Institute, having participated in Broadway Bound, and since 2016, in Spotlight on Young Performers. That’s translated into a good deal of time on stage. Bellistri has done six main stage shows and appeared in some of the summer children’s theatre shows. This is her fifth show with the Spotlight troupe.
Bellistri said, “I’ve learned a lot in the programs, including valuable social skills. I’m much more outgoing now and am no longer very shy. And I’ve become really close to my Spotlight friends; they’re like family.”
Sponsored by Fins Hospitality Group, “James and the Giant Peach” runs Friday to Sunday, Nov. 8 to 10, with Friday and Saturday evening performances at 7 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday matinee performances at 3 p.m. There also is a performance at 11 a.m., Friday. Tickets for all shows are $17.
For more information or to purchase tickets, go to www.clearspacetheatre.org or call 302-227-2270.
