It’s not very often in musical theatre circles that you get to do a new and exciting show that has rarely been done by amateurs…or professionals either for that matter! Rickmansworth Players is thrilled to be bringing Big Fish to the Pump House Theatre from 6-10 May 2025.

Big Fish is a musical based on Daniel Wallace's novel and Tim Burton’s 2003 film. The story focusses on Edward, a charming storyteller who tries to inspire his son, Will, by recounting fantastical tales of the adventures he had on the road as a travelling salesman. As a child, Will loved these tall tales but as an adult, he struggles to unpick reality from fantasy and really understand what drives his father. He goes on a quest to search for the truth behind the stories and learns lessons about himself that change the father he in turn becomes. 

This fantastical tale is full of magical fairy tale characters; mermaids (...as if you haven’t had enough of them!), giants, werewolves, and a witch, each of which teach Edward their own lesson, but the harsh reality that sits underneath the stories makes them all the more necessary. 

It's an energetic and fun show with some beautiful music written by Andrew Lippa whose music we last enjoyed in The Addams Family. 

This November, join Rickmansworth Players at Watersmeet, for their staging of the modern and critically acclaimed 2014 National Theatre adaptation of ‘Treasure Island’!

You’ll be immersed into a gripping narrative full of excitement, terror, and ultimately, fun. Indeed, the ‘ripping-est’ of ripping yarns!

The story is narrated by Jim, originally a young boy in Stevenson’s version, but reimagined as the innkeeper’s granddaughter in this version. One dark and stormy night, Jim opens the door to a terrifying stranger, setting the stage for the adventure that follows. The stranger, Bill Bones, arrives with a chest and a dire warning: beware of the seafaring man with one leg. What they discover in the chest propels Jim into a challenging journey across the ocean alongside her companions, Squire Tralawny and Dr. Livesy.  On their journey the characters encounter lies, deception, and murder, but also forge bonds of friendship, resilience, and survival.

Accompanying the narrative is original incidental music by Dan Jones and captivating Sea Shanties by John Tams. The music adds an immersive layer to the experience, drawing you into the maritime world and enhancing the emotional impact of the story.

The play delves into themes of adventure and discovery, but it also explores the complexities of human nature and the struggles of growing up. Jim’s journey is not just a physical one; it is a path to self-discovery and empowerment.

Join us and set sail on an unforgettable voyage that will leave you yearning for more.

Tickets available soon.