Art imitates life in Theatre Louisiana Christian’s second show of the season, “Big Fish,” which opens Thursday night.
“Big Fish” is a musical by Andrew Lippa and John August, based on a 1988 novel by Daniel Wallace.
This musical takes you on a journey through Edward Bloom’s life, as he is battling cancer. Before he dies, Edward wants to share all his stories, dreams and experiences with his son. The audience gets to see all the people Edward has crossed paths with who have ultimately changed his life.
Tabitha Huffman, director of “Big Fish” and professor of theatre, found out recently her lifelong friend Tisha Falcon Lehfeldt is also battling cancer.
Fehfeldt is battling for her life with a rare type of cancer, and she has mentored thousands of people. One of the reasons so many know Tisha is that along with teaching about Jesus Christ on church stages, she is an adored radio personality on the big Christian radio station in Honolulu. Ironically enough, this station is called “The Fish FM.” Her afternoon show is called “The Joyride.”
“When my musical director Enrico Cannella and I chose to do this musical six months ago, I had no idea my precious friend would be battling cancer, just like the lead role in our show,” Huffman said. “This production has taken on a whole new meaning for me. So, we are dedicating the tlc production of Big Fish, the Musical to Tisha Falcon Lehfeldt.”
Although this musical has a character battling cancer, this is not what the play is about, Huffman said.
“This play is about a man who is larger than life,” she said. “He has positivity, passion and a child-like spirit full of love for everyone he meets. This is Tisha Falcon Lehfeldt in a nutshell.”
Senior theatre major Austin Tinsley plays the lead role of Eward Bloom in his final performance as an LCU student.
“’Big Fish’ being my last show at LCU is so perfect because it ultimately sums up my college experience. Amazing stories, making best friends and most importantly meeting my wife,” Tinsley said.
“Big Fish” runs Nov. 2-3 and 9-10 at 7 p.m. and Nov 4 and 11 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 for LCU students, faculty and staff; $12 for senior citizens and non-LCU students and $15 for general admission. Group rates of 10 or more start at $10. Visit www.purplepass.com to get your tickets.
