StageSetters Youth Program

The StageSetters Youth Program is NCCA’s theatre education program for ages 8–18, blending training in the performing arts with fun, creativity, and guidance from professional staff. Each year, we offer three exciting opportunities: the StageSetters Spring Production, directed by our professional team; the Broadway Bound Summer Camp, taught by guest actors from across the country; and youth roles in our annual A Christmas Carol, which gives students the chance to take part in a fully professional rehearsal process and production.

Our program welcomes students of all experience levels, providing the opportunity to learn essential acting skills, work alongside industry professionals, and gain invaluable onstage experience in a supportive and inspiring environment.

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James & the Giant Peach

From the book by Roald Dahl
Dramatized by Richard R. George

Friday, May 15 | 7:30 pm
Saturday, May 16 | 2:00 & 7:30 pm

Directed by Shoshana Canali
Stage Manager by Gianna Gould
Scenic Design by Andrew Stuart
Lighting Design by Joel Mercier & Tyler Soucy

Cast List
Narrator … Dalton Lylyk
James … Ryder Bell
Old-Green-Grasshopper … Teegan Boucher
Silkworm … Kansas Lynch
Centipede … Mina Parker
Spider … Fiona Webb
Ladybug … Paisley Fadden
Earthworm … Seamus Fadden
Glow-worm … Amber Harris
Aunt Sponge … Aster Aurelio
Aunt Spiker … Juniper Wright
Mother … Piper Neenos
Father … Aeris Boucher
Little Old Man / Captain … Devin Parker
First Officer … Harper Bell
Second Officer … Mae Plant
Ensemble … Harper Bell, Aeris Boucher, Thorin Ham, Arwen Ham, Piper Neenos, Mae Plant, & Kahlayah Vigneault-Smith

A magical peach. An orphaned boy. A crew of unforgettable insect friends. One wildly imaginative journey!

Step into the enchanting world of James Henry Trotter as Roald Dahl’s beloved story bursts to life on stage. Dreaming of escape from his dreadful aunts, James discovers a mysterious, larger-than-life peach that becomes the gateway to an extraordinary adventure filled with humor, heart, and just a touch of mischief.

Along the way, he’s joined by a delightful band of companions—from the wise Old-Green-Grasshopper to the ever-pessimistic Earthworm—each bringing their own charm to this unforgettable voyage. As the journey unfolds, audiences will witness both the wickedness of some and the kindness of others, all while James discovers courage, friendship, and his own place in the world.

With dazzling imagination, larger-than-life characters, and plenty of laughs, this “peachy” adventure is perfect for anyone who has ever longed for something more. Come along for the ride—you won’t want to miss it!

Presented with special permission from Dramatic Publishing Company (www.dramaticpublishing.com)

UPCOMING AUDITIONS
StageSetters Youth Program – NCCA Jean’s Playhouse
JAMES & THE GIANT PEACH

The StageSetters Youth Program is excited to announce auditions for the stage play James & the Giant Peach (non-musical version) on Sunday, April 12 at Jean’s Playhouse (34 Papermill Drive, Lincoln, NH).

Audition Details

Time: 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Format: Group audition (no preparation required)
What to Expect: We’ll provide all materials—just come ready to participate and have fun!
If you play an instrument and would like to share, feel free to bring it along.

What to Bring

Your calendar to list any and all rehearsal conflicts from Tuesday, April 14 through the end of the process.
(Conflicts are important for casting; excessive conflicts may affect roles.)

Schedule Overview

Rehearsals:

2–3 evenings per week (Monday–Thursday) + Sunday afternoons
Dates: April 14 – May 10
A detailed schedule, bases on conflicts provided during auditions, will be provided during the first week of rehearsals

Important Notes on Conflicts:

Please list all known conflicts at auditions
Adding new conflicts later is difficult within our 5-week process
Tech Week conflicts are only permitted if pre-listed and school-related
Performance conflicts are not permitted

Tech Week:

May 11 – May 14
We do require actors to be with us every night of this important week, when we are adding set, lights, sound, and costumes

Performances:

Friday, May 15 at 7:30 PM
Saturday, May 16 at 2:00 PM & 7:30 PM

Tuition

The program has a $50 participation fee to help cover production costs (costumes, royalties, professional staff).

However, no student will be turned away for financial reasons.
Scholarships are available! We require that each child who needs the fee waved to write us a brief letter explaining what this process and experience means to them.

For scholarship inquiries or submissions, please email info@jeansplayhouse.com.

Sign Up for JAMES & THE GIANT PEACH Auditions

Audience Feedback

A delightful experience for the whole family!

A Gem in the White Mountains

Attending a performance at Jean’s Playhouse is always a highlight of our trips to Lincoln. The quality of the productions rivals that of larger cities, and the intimate setting makes each show feel personal. It’s incredible to have such a cultural treasure nestled in the heart of the White Mountains.

— Emily R., Regular Visitor

Nurturing Young Talent

My daughter participated in the youth education program at Jean’s Playhouse, and the experience was transformative. The staff’s dedication to fostering young talent is evident, and the skills she gained have been invaluable both on and off the stage.

— Mark T., Proud Parent

A Testament to Community Spirit

Jean’s Playhouse stands as a beacon of community and resilience. From its origins in a repurposed paper mill to the modern venue it is today, the theater embodies the spirit of creativity and togetherness. Every performance is a testament to what can be achieved when passion meets purpose.

— Linda M., Local Resident