Preview: Pine-Richland High School rehearses 'Big'

RICHLAND TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Pine-Richland High School is performing the musical "Big" in March.

The musical is an adaptation of the popular 1988 Tom Hanks film.

"I loved the movie and actually had no idea that this had been produced into a musical.  It has truly grown into one of my favorite musicals," said freshman Rush Hodgin, who is playing Josh Baskin.

Baskin is a 12-year-old boy who grows up overnight after being granted a wish by a carnival machine. 

"I have always wanted to be older than I really am and always wished that I was, well, big," said Hodgin.

Junior Alexis Loiselle is playing Susan Lawrence, who becomes attracted to the grown-up Josh.

"Susan goes from being cynical and stuck-up to a playful and happy woman who finds her inner child," said Loiselle.

Hodgin, Loiselle and the rest of the cast are enjoying making the 1980s movie classic come to life on stage.

"The cast is amazing. Everyone has so much energy and charisma.  Over half the cast is new, and it's  blast to work with new faces.  There's so much talent," said Loiselle.

The senior-citizen complimentary performance will take place Thursday, March 7 at 4 p.m. The regular performances are scheduled for March 8, 9, 15 and 16 at 7:30 p.m. and March 16 at 2 p.m.

"Pine-Richland's musicals are always so fantastic, and it is an honor to be a part of them," said Loiselle.

WPXI