Hartselle Drama to Present 'Big Fish' in April

The school edition of the musical based on the novel and film will run for five performances.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 7:41pm

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A striking black silhouette of a fantastical character, such as a giant or a mermaid, against a bold, geometric background in high-contrast colors, conceptually representing the imaginative storytelling at the heart of the 'Big Fish' musical.The student-led production of 'Big Fish' at Hartselle High School promises to bring the musical's whimsical world of tall tales to life on stage.Hartselle Today

Hartselle Drama will present the school edition of the musical 'Big Fish' from April 7-12 at the high school auditorium. The production is based on the novel by Daniel Wallace and the Tim Burton film, featuring music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa and a book by John August.

Why it matters

The musical explores the relationship between a father and son through the lens of the father's tall tales, touching on themes of legacy and the stories we leave behind. As a student-led production, it provides an opportunity for the local community to experience a Broadway-caliber show.

The details

The story follows Edward Bloom, a traveling salesman known for his imaginative stories involving giants, mermaids, and witches. His son Will is determined to find the truth behind his father's tales. The Hartselle Drama production will feature the iconic field of daffodils and the whimsical energy associated with the story.

  • The preview performance will be held on April 7 at 7 p.m.
  • Evening performances are scheduled for April 9-11 at 7 p.m.
  • A matinee performance will be held on April 12 at 2 p.m.

The players

Brady Long

Will play the role of Edward Bloom.

Maddox Abernathy

Will play the role of Karl the Giant.

Hartselle Drama

The student drama department at Hartselle High School, presenting the school edition of 'Big Fish'.

Daniel Wallace

Author of the novel on which the musical is based.

Tim Burton

Director of the Columbia motion picture adaptation of 'Big Fish'.

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What they’re saying

“As a student involved in this production, I am incredibly proud of the imagination and heart our team has poured into this story. 'Big Fish' explores the powerful bond between fathers and sons through 'larger-than-life' tall tales involving giants, witches, and circus performers. Beyond the spectacle, it's a deeply moving story about legacy and the stories we leave behind—themes that have truly resonated with our entire cast.”

— Alida Stinson, Student marketer for the drama department

What’s next

Tickets are available online on Gofan.com. Ticket prices are $12 for students and seniors, $15 for adults, $25 for reserved seating, and $8 for the preview show on April 7.

The takeaway

This student-led production of 'Big Fish' provides the local community with the opportunity to experience a Broadway-caliber musical that explores the powerful bond between fathers and sons through the lens of imaginative storytelling.