Camillus Middle School to present ‘James and the Giant Peach’

Students of Camillus Middle School will perform a fantastical journey with Roald Dahl’s “James and the Giant Peach,” now reimagined as a vibrant musical that promises to enchant audiences of all ages.
The show features a delightfully tuneful score from the EGOT (EMMY, GRAMMY, OSCAR & TONY) award-winning duo Justin Pasek and Benj Paul also known for their work on “Dear Evan Hansen,” “The Greatest Showman” and “A Christmas Story the Musical,” alongside a whimsically quirky book by Timothy Allen McDonald. This production has been hailed by critics as a “masterpeach!”
The adventure begins with the intriguing Lahdalord (Adelyn Borsz), and mysterious narrator, who beckons audiences to witness the enchanting tale “Right Before Your Eyes.”
When young James (Levi Pontello) is reluctantly sent by his devious aunts, Spiker (Parker Thomas) and Sponge (Clada Balcum), to chop down their ancient fruit tree, he stumbles upon a magical potion that transforms his world in ways he never imagined.
Enter: the colossal peach! Suddenly, James finds himself in the heart of a magnificent adventure surrounded by a cast of oversized, human-sized insects: the charming Grasshopper (Kenneth Kirby IV), the nurturing Ladybug (Alaina Schuessler), the clever Spider (Caroline Sperduti), the witty Earthworm (Nikola Jakimoski), and the spirited Centipede (Josephine Carkey). Each character bursts with personality and humor!
As the peach tumbles from the tree and rolls into the vast ocean, James and his newfound friends face challenges that include hunger, menacing sharks, and a flurry of disagreements. But with James’ quick thinking and creativity, these quirky companions learn the true meaning of teamwork and friendship, transforming from a mismatched group into a loving family. Their thrilling voyage culminates in a jaw-dropping arrival at the Empire State Building, where new adventures await!
With a talented ensemble, dazzling dance sequences, and colorful array of costumes, the show is a delightful adaptation that captures the essence of Dahl’s beloved classic.
The cast also includes Giulia Albino, Luca Belfield, Brayden Bielby, Anna Bojarski, Marian Bronson, Ryan Buff, Emma Caltabiano, Ryan Champlin, Evelyn Dimmel, Tate Fabbri, Cadence Falchi, Isabetta Finney, Sarah Friers, Katie Grandinetta, Zoey Hess, Victoria Jacuk, Kyla King, Gabrielle Mac, Maddie Michalski, Flynn Morschauser, Caliope O’Rourke, Maddison Perkins, Brianna Popp, Madison Potaczala, Penny Schultz, Hannah Smith, David Sterling, Sarah Sullivan, Lucas Tarolli, Aubrey Tyler, Lily Warren and Jaden Willis.
The CMS musical production team includes Don Schuessler (Director/Musical Director/Producer/Lighting Designer), Heather Molina (Choreographer/Assistant Director), Cindy Kissane (Costumer/Properties/Assistant Director), Jeffery Bowe (Set Builder/Painter), Jenny Gettino (Production Assistant) and Selma Salmons (Seamstress).
Performances will be held at Camillus Middle School, 5525 Ike Dixon Rd. in Camillus on Thursday, November 7th and Friday, November 8th at 7 PM and Saturday, November 9th at 2 PM. Doors open 30 minutes prior to the show. Tickets are $10 general admission.
Syracuse.com will publish information provided by schools on their shows throughout the season.