Avon Players start 2014-15 season with a ‘Big’ hit

REVIEW

Even Mother Nature couldn’t dampen the opening night of Big, The Musical as Avon Players kicked off their new season on Friday.

Based on the hilarious and beloved Tom Hanks movie, a near-capacity crowd braved the rain and were treated to a trip back to the decade of excess where 12-year-old Josh Baskin (played by the loveable Sonny Pacitto) makes an ill-fated wish at a carnival to be older. From there, Phil Zott easily transitions into the older version of Josh and gives a performance that hits the mark of a kid trapped in the body of an adult. His performance is childlike without ever feeling contrived or clichéd. Another scene-stealer is Josh’s best friend Billy Kopecki played by Kyle Mason, a delightfully reincarnated version of Jon Cryer’s iconic ‘Duckie’ from Pretty in Pink.

Overall, the casting—from the major roles to the ensemble parts—is spot on and supported by outstanding vocals. Also, fantastic attention to detail is given to the costumes, which are a colorful array of Cosby-esque sweaters, stirrups pants, stonewashed jeans, and Members Only jackets; everything you secretly loved about the 80s.

And as I’m sure you’re dying to know, yes, the musical stays true to the movie with the beloved piano scene between Josh and toy patriarch Mr. MacMillan.

So, if you’re looking for a fun family-friendly affair or simply want to indulge in the 80s without having to wear the clothes, you’ll want to grab a ticket to see Big, The Musical before it and Zoltar disappears.

Performances:
Saturday, September 6      8 p.m.

Sunday, September 7         2 p.m.

Friday, September 12         8 p.m.

Saturday, September 13    8 p.m.

Sunday, September 14      2 p.m.

Friday, September 19         8 p.m.

Saturday, September 20    8 p.m.

For tickets and more information, visit the Avon Players website.