ShirleyArts! is very excited to announce our summer youth musical program for 2023! This summer workshop culminates in a performance of the musical Roald Dahl’s James and the Giant Peach JR. Based on the book "James and the Giant Peach" by Roald Dahl

For ages 8 -17, this educational program will culminate in three performances of “Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach, Jr.” Shirley residency is NOT required, and scholarships are available. Director Meredith Marcinkewicz and Stage Manager/Choreographer Laurie Marcinkewicz will lead the children through auditions, rehearsals, and performances, as well as theater games, music skills, and cooperative team-building activities.

“Based on one of Roald Dahl’s most poignantly quirky stories, Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach JR. is a brand-new take on this "masterpeach" of a tale. Featuring a wickedly tuneful score and a witty and charming book, this adventurous musical about courage and self-discovery is destined to be a classic.”

“When James is sent by his conniving aunts to chop down their old fruit tree, he discovers a magic potion that grows a tremendous peach, rolls into the ocean and launches a journey of enormous proportions. James befriends a collection of singing insects that ride the giant piece of fruit across the ocean, facing hunger, sharks and plenty of disagreements along the way.”
“The possibilities for creative costuming and puppetry abound, and young actors will love playing the outlandish and larger-than-life human and insect characters.”