Theatre at St. Luke’s to present "Big Fish”

Photos by Howard Clifton and Valerie Sims

Broadway is coming to St. Luke’s United Methodist Church from Thursday, July 31, to Sunday, Aug. 10, when Theatre at St. Luke’s presents "Big Fish.”

The musical, based on a novel by Daniel Wallance and film directed by Tim Burton, takes place in the American South. It follows Edward Bloom, whose tales blur the lines between truth and myths. Bloom nears the end of his life, and his son, Will, attempts to learn more about his father — all while discovering the heart, humor and heroism in Bloom’s tales.

“‘Big Fish’ is a story that resonates deeply with our community’s heart, focusing on storytelling, legacy, the bond between parent and child, and the tension between myth and truth,” said Steve MacKinnon, St. Luke’s senior artistic director and the director of “Big Fish.” “As a theater artist and a parent myself, the themes hit home. It’s whimsical, emotional and filled with beautiful music and complex characters, making it the perfect fit for our stage this year.” 

He believes “Big Fish” is unique in its ability to allow the audience to believe in the impossible while enjoying the element of truth. It’s crossed with magical and personal moments and makes people rethink the legacy they’re leaving.

This summer musical is a part of St. Luke’s annual tradition. “Big Fish” is just one of many productions the church perform throughout the year as part of its “broader commitment to the arts,” MacKinnon said. The church offers a variety of arts events, concerts, shows, youth productions and cabarets throughout the year. 

The production comprises 40 cast members and 18 on the creative team. All 58 are volunteers donating their time and talent. MacKinnon calls it “a true community effort.” 

To find the cast, St. Luke’s held open auditions in the spring and invited people from all across Central Florida. 

“We’re proud to cast a beautiful blend of seasoned performers, first-timers, students and professionals,” MacKinnon said. “Our creative team is a mix of returning collaborators and new faces but all being passionate artists who bring tremendous heart and imagination to the table.”

He said about half of the performers are joining for the first time, while the rest are part of the extended St. Luke’s family and have performed, designed or served backstage in previous shows. 

To bring the magic to life, the group spent eight weeks rehearsing, dedicating time for three to four days per week, including evenings and weekends. 

“It’s a fast-paced process, but our cast and crew have worked incredibly hard and poured their hearts into every moment and commit much of their summer to putting on an amazing production,” MacKinnon said. 

The volunteer team built the set over the course of weeks. 

“Without giving too much away, audiences can expect a space that transforms in magical ways from a childhood bedroom to a giant’s cave, a witch’s swamp, a mermaid by the shore, a circus, the wild west and many surprises that blossoms into a dreamworld,” MacKinnon said about the sets. “It’s imaginative, nostalgic and unexpected wonders.”

But preparation for the musical began months before the rehearsals and carpentry with collaboration behind the scenes between volunteers, an orchestra, designers and the directors. Leaders planned out exactly what set would be used, the costume designs and choreographed ensembles. 

“From constructing elaborate set pieces to choreographing ensemble numbers, it truly takes a village,” MacKinnon said. “The entire St. Luke’s community has played roles in the creation, from prayer and encouragement to hammer and paintbrush.”

Over the course of two weeks, St. Luke’s will offer nine different times to see the show. The times were carefully picked by St. Luke’s production and worship leadership teams to match with the church programming. 

“We strive to make our performances accessible for families and community members and strategically schedule our summer musicals so we can include returning college and school-age performers,” MacKinnon said. 

He said the community looks forward to the production every year, and ticket sales reflect that popularity. Tickets already have begun to sell quickly and in the past have sold out close to the performance time. 

People come from all over Central Florida to see St. Luke’s productions. “Big Fish” is a way for the church to touch people’s lives and bring them into their community, MacKinnon said. 

“Some folks may not have otherwise stepped foot into a church,” MacKinnon said. “It’s a bridge connecting faith, art, experience and story. A powerful way to share who we are and what we believe: that everyone has a story, and every story matters by being welcomed, valued and accepted.”