Courtesy photo Rehearsing for the Altoona Area Junior High School Drama Club’s upcoming production of “James and the Giant Peach” are (from left): front row –– Delilah Laich (Silkworm), Grace Pensyl (Ladybug), Tenley Keefer (Old-Green-Grasshopper), Ava DeGennaro (Earthworm), Emma Zearfoss (Glow-worm) and Logan Espigh (James Henry Trotter); back row –– Ruby Zlupko (Centipede) and Cristina Bailey (Miss Spider).

The Altoona Area Junior High School Drama Club will present “James and the Giant Peach” at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 20, and Friday, Nov. 21, with a matinee show at 1 p.m.. Saturday, Nov. 22.

A senior citizen preview will take place at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19.

All performances will take place in the Altoona Area Junior High School auditorium.

Based on the children’s novel by British author Roald Dahl, “James and the Giant Peach” has captivated the imaginations of children worldwide for years.

The story introduces readers to one of Dahl’s most famous characters, an orphaned boy named James Henry Trotter.

After the tragic deaths of his parents, James is subjected to the cruelty of his two aunts, Spiker and Sponge.

The story takes a fantastical turn when James accidentally spills magic crocodile tongues by an old peach tree, resulting in the growth of an enormous peach. This peach becomes the gateway to an extraordinary adventure and the setting where James meets his unusual companions — Centipede, Miss Spider, Old Green Grasshopper, Earthworm, Ladybug, Glow-worm and Silkworm — a group of oversized insects.

The story unfolds as James and his new friends embark on a surreal journey across the world, sitting comfortably inside the giant peach.

While fraught with dangers and marvels as they encounter antagonistic Cloud-Men and other perils, their voyage offers James the sense of belonging and family he has always longed for.

After a series of thrilling escapades, the peach and its occupants find themselves in New York City, where James’ story wins over the hearts of the locals, leading to a joyful conclusion where James and his insect friends find a new home and purpose.

This whimsical narrative not only showcases Dahl’s imaginative prowess but also reinforces positive themes of friendship, resilience and the quest for belonging.

Featuring more than 100 actors and crew members, “James and the Giant Peach” is sure to be entertaining and fun for everyone.

The show is being directed and produced by drama club faculty advisers Stacy Palilla and Jordan Giordano, along with assistants Lindsay Smith and Ashley Cover.

General admission tickets will only be on sale at the door and will cost $10 for adults and $5 for ages 17 and younger.

The doors will open approximately 45 minutes before each show.