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Fat Boy Swim

Fat Boy Swim is an acclaimed and celebrated novel.

Written by Catherine Forde / Directed by Dougie Irvine / Musical Direction by Michael John McCarthy.

This musical adaptation finds Jimmy at a turning point in his life, struggling with his weight, school bullies and relationships at home. This life-affirming story taps into the teenage psyche and the repercussions of family secrets.  Created by an awarding-winning team, this production is set to an original soundtrack which is both contemporary and nostalgic, with anthems that you’ll be singing for years to come.  It’s a relevant, vital and timely, coming of age tale which will delight family audiences across the country.

Visible Fictions are developing this fantastic novel into a stage musical. We presented a work in progress as part of Edinburgh International Book Festival in 2018, and we are thrilled to have been selected to present a 25 minute segment at Mercury Musical Developments’ BEAM showcase in 2021.

Since then, there has been so much hard work going on behind the scenes, working on the script and music. This year, we are planning further development of this exciting project and have big plans for sharing the songs of Fat Boy Swim in a series of gigs at the beginning of 2027. Watch this space for tour dates and news of the full production!

 

Behind the scenes: Fat Boy Swim Development

In celebration of World Book Day, we put together this short behind-the-scenes video from the Fat Boy Swim development sessions held in the summer of 2023, where the book’s on the journey of becoming a play.

During a few sunny days in August 2023, a talented and cheerful group of creatives met for music sessions and table readings of the script, which is based on the book by Cathy Forde – a story that makes you realise that anything is possible.

Music is composed by MJ McCarthy. Thanks to everyone who has helped with the development of this production. Credited in the above video are Leah Byrne, Craig Hunter, Tiger Mitchell, David Rankine, Isaac Savage, Naomi Stirrat, Peter Vint and Gail Watson.

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