At The Box Theatre, opening Friday Feb 27, Act Out Enrichment’s production of James and the Giant Peach JR. leans fully into the story’s central idea that family is something we build together. Act Out delivers a performance driven by ensemble chemistry, where connection rather than spectacle carries the show.

The emotional center rests with Henry Schulz as James and his band of oversized insect companions. Their interactions feel cohesive and intentional, particularly in the relationship between James and Natalynn Schreck as Ladybug. Schreck’s maternal warmth gives the production a steady emotional anchor. In a story that begins with loss and cruelty, that tenderness lands with quiet power. Their scenes together provide the heart that makes the peach’s wild journey feel grounded in something human.

Leo McMains’ Earthworm adds a different but equally compelling dimension. Representing James’ fears and anxieties, Earthworm becomes the voice of doubt that shadows every adventure. McMains’ performance is notable not only for his line delivery but for his physical commitment. Even in silence, he reacts, flinches, and emotes, sustaining tension in the background of scenes and giving the character psychological depth. It is a disciplined performance that understands that acting does not stop when the dialogue does.

The rest of the insect ensemble strengthens that sense of unity. Zoe Gordon’s Grasshopper brings poise and leadership, Jae Trujillo’s Spider adds sharp wit and control, and Ben Roiz’s Centipede injects restless energy and humor into the group dynamic. Together, they move and respond as a collective rather than as isolated performances, reinforcing the production’s theme of chosen family.

Opposing James are his delightfully cruel aunts, Cadence Gammon as Spiker and Camille Whiting as Sponge. These roles demand boldness, and both performers meet that challenge with energy and precision. The audience is meant to despise them, and they succeed in that mission, but they are so theatrically vibrant that hating them becomes part of the fun. Their exaggerated physicality and comic timing bring a sharp edge to the opening scenes and set the adventure in motion with gleeful villainy.

Threading through the story is Ladahlord, portrayed by Joey Henneman. With acrobatic flair, including flips woven into dance sequences, Henneman transforms the character from simple plot catalyst into a dynamic stage presence. Their seamless reappearances in multiple forms, including as a seagull, subtly suggest that they remain a guiding force throughout James’ journey. The transitions are handled with clarity, allowing the audience to sense their continued presence without distracting from the story.

While the giant peach itself is the show’s most visible symbol, this production succeeds because of the relationships inside it. Cast B demonstrates a strong sense of ensemble awareness, and that shared energy makes the voyage across the Atlantic feel less like fantasy spectacle and more like a story about growth, resilience, and chosen family.

James and the Giant Peach JR. runs weekends February 27 through March 8, 2026 at The Box Riverside, 3536 Market Street in Riverside. Performances alternate between Cast A and Cast B, with evening shows at 7:00 p.m. and matinees at 1:00 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at Act Out Enrichment's online Box Office. Get tickets today, don't make us send the sharks.