James and the Giant Peach JR - Character Breakdown
Ladahlord
Ladahlord is a mysterious character who seems to have a hand in the magical things that are happening. Though he may seem a bit off, he carefully watches over James, making sure James moves towards to a better life. Ladahlord also serves as a guiding narrator throughout the story. This is a perfect role for a charismatic actor who can sing and dance well.
James
James is the hero of our story, on an epic quest to find a family of his own and gain confidence in himself. Must win over an audience and be comfortable on stage.
Ladybug
Ladybug immediately takes on a doting, maternal role in Jameslife. This is a fantastic role for a performer with a great singing voice and a regal demeanor.
Grasshopper
Grasshopper, the leader of the Insects, is ever the optimist and assumes a paternal role in James life. This performer should sing and act well, but foremost has a warm, inviting presence.
Spider
Spider is a clever creature who becomes a fun-loving older sister to James. A young actor with a spunky personality and a great voice is a perfect choice for the role.
Earthworm
Earthworm is a gentle spirit, although he can be a bit of a coward. Luckily, he gains enough courage to save the day by baiting some gullible seagulls. Earthworm looks at James as a brother figure. This performer should sing well, and more importantly, isn't afraid of being a little outlandish.
Centipede
Centipede may be a bit of grouch, but he is ever-loyal to the pack, and by the end of the story, he's won over by James. James sees Centipede as that cranky uncle with a heart of gold. Centipede should have a good singing voice, and be able to make strong, specific acting choices.
Spiker and Sponge
Spiker and Sponge are the sort of aunts (or monsters) that you fear ever being stuck with. They take James into their home but only so that he can be their own personal servant. Spiker is the brains of the operation, and Sponge is more concerned with finding something to eat. These are great character roles for two performers who are fantastic singers and actors.
Zoo Crowd
Mr. Trotter, Mrs. Trotter, Karl Kreatour and the Zoo Crowd are all part of James nightmare. These are featured roles who may or may not double in roles.
Matron Nurse
The Matron Nurse runs the Painswick Orphanage, and you definitely get a sense she hasn't had a vacation in years. This is a great acting role for someone who can command a room.
Billy and Bobby Bobby-Cop
Billy and Bobby Bobby-Cop are a perfectly unified pair of cops working for Scotland Yard. This is fun cameo role.
Vagrants
The Vagrants, including Doreen Driggles, Ridgley Rapscallion, Violet Funkschmeller, and Chris Cryermouth are an ensemble of have-nots to support Spiker and Sponge's treacherous plans. The Passing Man, Man (with wallet) and Passing Woman all have featured moments where they fall victim to Spiker and Sponge.
Garden Chorus
The Garden Chorus comes to life in Shake It Up as Ladahlord mixes a magical potion. This is a great role for young actors new to the stage.
Reporters
The Reporters, including Ida Walters, are on the scene just as the peach is becoming larger than life. Must be energetic performers.
Ladies
Bitsy Botana and the rest of the Ladies Garden Guild are in flowery frocks and hats, intent on having Spiker and Sponge give the keynote speech at their conference.
Hollywood Agents
The Hollywood Agents, led by Buzz, jump in on the success of the growing peach with movie and Broadway deals for Spiker and Sponge. Like the Reporters, this is a fun group with some lively performances.
Farm Animals, Willy Wonka And Oompa-Loompas
Farm Animals, Willy Wonka and Oompa-Loompas are all in harm s way as the peach outgrows its stem and rolls towards the ocean. These are very fun cameo roles for performers with personality.
Angry Crowd
The Angry Crowd is in search of the amazing giant peach, but they quickly turn into an angry mob when the peach is nowhere to be found.
Cruise Ensemble
The Cruise Ensemble are various vacationers en route to New York with Spiker and Sponge.
Sharks And Seagulls
The Sharks and Seagulls have a featured number. Must be strong movers and dancers.
New Yorkers
New Yorkers, including the Screaming Women, Lucille Van Kooglestein, Bunny Mackenzie The Third, Jake and Joe all witness the peach land directly on the Empire State Building and are sent into a panic!
Roald Dahl's James and the Giant Peach JR.
Is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI.
www.MTIShows.com