“James and the Giant Peach,” written by Roald Dahl and adapted for the stage by Timothy Allen McDonald with music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, is a challenging show. The protagonist, James Trotter, is on stage almost the entire time, carrying the weight of the story on his shoulders. This makes the role particularly demanding for a young actor. Taking it into account, Ms. Katie Corrie, lead director and head of the production, chose to double-cast the role.
The play follows the journey of James Henry Trotter, a young orphan who is taken in by his cruel Aunt Spiker and Aunt Sponge. After a mix-up with Ladahlord, a mysterious character with a peculiar vocabulary, James discovers a giant peach. Inside, he befriends a group of eccentric insects. Together, they embark on a magical adventure, forming a lasting bond of family along the way.
The production marks the first double-cast middle school performance in One School Theatre. Both young actors stepped into James’ shoes and brought unique energy and interpretation to the role.
Leah Carroll, a fourth-grade scholar, portrayed James in the evening performances. It was her second production with Ms. Corrie after debuting in “Madagascar Jr.” Cast members praised Leah for her effect during the rehearsal process.
Eliana Gagner, who played James’ Aunt Sponge, said Carroll is dedicated to bringing the character to life.
“It’s amazing working with Leah and her energy,” Gagner said. “She’s really dedicated to her role. She’s so excited, and I’m so happy for Leah because she deserves it.”
Sharing the role, Dylan Downer worked closely with Leah and learned from her. At the same time, he supported her in rehearsals and helped Carroll in the same way.
Downer said Carroll encouraged him during the entire process.
“I’ve learned that it’s essential to work with others while doing this show,” Downer said. “Leah always tells me, ‘You can do it,’ and encourages me along the way, which helps me a lot in my performance.”
Dylan Downer, a fifth-grade scholar, has more theatre experience under his belt, having also performed in “Big Fish” and “Madagascar Jr.” His upbeat personality has left a strong impression on the cast. Many praise him for his pure joy when at rehearsals.
Charlotte Elderkin, who played one of James’ insect friends Spider, said Downer brought joy to the cast.
“It’s so cool to experience an elementary scholar who brings so much joy to a cast, no matter how bad their day is going: That’s Dylan,” Elderkin said. “Every morning, he comes up and gives Ariana [Weissner] and me big hugs, and encourages us to do our best.”
Carroll and Downer continued to support each other both on and off stage. Carroll said Downer is a great friend to her.
“It’s really nice working with Dylan, as he’s really encouraging,” Carroll said. “He’s my first friend who’s in another grade, and I’ve never had that before.”
Both scholars bring James Trotter to life in distinctly different ways, a fact that has not gone unnoticed by their peers.
Nate Huckabee, a sophomore who runs tech for the play, said the actors are both great despite differing performances.
“I definitely expected to see what I saw today from both Leah and Dylan,” Huckabee said. “They are very different actors, but they’re both doing an amazing job in their own ways. Being the lead in a show puts a huge responsibility on you, so your energy matters to all the cast.”
With two talented young performers sharing the spotlight, the production of “James and the Giant Peach” not only brought to life the magic of Dahl’s story, but was also a celebration of collaboration, friendship and the spirit of One School Theatre.
