David Sisson joins us for his first MPT production and his first time being on stage since 2005! To make his return back to stage even more special, he gets to perform with his son Patrick.
How many shows have you done with Middleton Players Theatre?
Patrick: This will be my fourth. The first was All Shook Up in 2017 where I met my fiance!
Big Fish revolves around a man who tells big stories about his life that seem unbelievable. What's something true from your life that sounds unbelievable?
David: I am a Shaman.
Patrick: I once held hands with Tina Fey!
What is your favorite song from Big Fish?
David: Fight the Dragons
Patrick: I Don’t Need a Roof
Have you ever shared the stage with your son/dad?
Patrick: Yes! My dad and I did our first show together back in 2003 when we performed in A Christmas Carol with the Children's Theater of Madison.
David: Yes, we were both in the Children's Theater of Madison's A Christmas Carol for 3 years in a row, and that was 2 decades ago! It was Patrick’s first show and he was playing Tiny Tim and they asked me to read some parts that hadn’t been cast yet at the first table read and let me know after that I would be playing those parts since I was going to be there with Patrick anyway! It was a great experience.
What do you like about performing with your son/dad?
Patrick: It has been such a joy to watch my dad push himself outside of his comfort zone in this production. His positive attitude and commitment to lifelong learning is so inspiring!
David: This story in particular hits close to my heart. I retired from my 46 year prosthetics career during the pandemic…..done fighting my dragons and my son is fully engaged in developing his own story and career, fighting his dragons. I am entering my last third of life and to watch him and the whole cast spend hours every night for months preparing for this show with all their passion and talent is really good for the soul. I will remember this experience forever.
What does it mean for you to be able to perform for your friends, family and community?
Patrick: This will be my first time on stage since the pre-COVID times! I am so excited to share this beautiful story with so many friends and loved ones within the Madison theater community.
David: Scary good! I haven’t done a show in 20 years and was worried about learning the Lines, songs , cues and dancing at 67 years old and being on stage with my son. What a gift! Thank you Middleton Players Theatre. Helping with my neuroplasticity.
Big Fish the musical will perform at the Middleton Performing Arts Center June 14-16 and June 21-23. Tickets to this show and discounted season tickets to all 3 of our summer shows can be purchased online or at the box office. Groups of 10 or more receive a 10% discount on tickets. https://www.middletonplayers.com/tickets