THE Young Venture Players presented their family Christmas musical Big at the Dolman to a packed house last night, running December 13-16. 

Based upon the film starring Tom Hanks, the musical tells the story of Josh Baskin who makes a wish to become ‘big’ and, when his wish is granted, has to spend four hilarious weeks as an adult.

It was fantastic to see the Mini Venture Players performing with the Young Players, meaning that the stage was at times busy, but this is to be expected with a cast of 75.

The cast deserves to be showcased, with some wonderful dancing, especially by some of the younger members.

There is certainly some emerging talent in both the Mini and the Young Venture Players.

Declan Joyce played a wonderfully awkward, ‘grown-up’ Josh Baskin, with his boyish qualities and child-like behaviour creating many a laugh; Danielle Davies, playing Josh’s love interest, Susan, and Phoebe Rees, his mother, displayed strong singing voices that belied their young ages, with both girls aged only 15.  

This is a musical with a warm winter feel and full of Christmas glitter.

Julie Benson