The cast and crew of the Tryon Summer Youth Theater production of “James and the Giant Peach” are hard at work preparing for the July 19 premiere, according to theater representatives.

James, the titular character, is played by 9-year-old Roman Darity, who is taking his role very seriously, the production team said. Often found with his head in the script, and singing at odd hours in the truck, the shower and during breakfast, he took on this part because, according to his mom, he wanted to see if he could do it.

Playing the evil aunties who have James in their clutches are Maggie Collins (Auntie Spiker) and Faith Augustine (Auntie Sponge).

Both Collins and Augustine are having fun playing the characters, they said. Augustine has played Sponge before at Flat Rock Playhouse, and it is one of her favorite roles to play, she said.

“It’s a challenge playing Spiker, but such fun being nasty,” Collins said.

A collaboration between Tryon Little Theater and Tryon Fine Arts Center, “James and the Giant Peach” opens July 18 with a Garden Party Gala in TFAC’s indoor English Garden (home of the Giant Peach).  The event will include an array of food and peach-themed drinks, and a preview of the performance.

Tickets for the gala and all the shows (July 19-22) are available at tltinfo.org or tryonarts.org. There are various prices available, depending on the performance. People can also call 828-859-2466 for details.

– Submitted by

Monica Jones