Lights, camera, action! Chloe Major, an eighth grade student at Ben Franklin Middle School, is starring in her first professional production, “Big: The Musical” at Bristol Riverside Theatre.
Based on the 1988 film, “big,” the musical follows 12-year-old Josh Baskin, who wishes to become a grown-up. After his wish his granted, he realizes there’s much more to being an adult than he thought.
Major plays Cynthia Benson, young Josh’s crush, and in grown-up Josh’s life, Major plays an executive at MacMillion Toys. Additionally, she is part of the youth ensemble.
“Being on stage is a rush,” said Major. “It’s exhilarating. There’s so many emotions – nervous, excited, focused. It’s amazing being on stage, seeing the audience and having the lights shining on you.”
The show began March 19 and runs through April 14. With all the rehearsals and shows, Major is attending virtual school, but is still participating in activities at Franklin.
“It’s definitely a challenge, but I’m getting used to it,” said Major. “The more that I do performances, the more I have to focus and fit in as much work into my schedule as I can.”
Although this is her first professional performance as an actor, Major has performed at Bristol Riverside Theatre before with Stepping Stone Dance Studio. She plans to keep pursuing acting in the long-run with a goal to perform on Broadway.
“I’m learning a lot from this production,” said Major. “I’m learning about the professional commitment with practices, and how things run back stage.”
Major is enjoying both the rehearsals and show time. “I love all the dancing and singing,” she says.
See Major on stage: 3/28, 3/30 at 8 p.m., 3/31, 4/3 at 7:30 p.m., 4/4 at 2 p.m., 4/6, 4/10 at 7:30 p.m., 4/11, 4/13 at 8 p.m., 4/14 at 3 p.m.
Purchase tickets to “Big: The Musical” here.