'Giant Peach' takes the stage at Larkin High in Elgin

More than 700 kids oohed, ahhhed and clapped to the rhythm during a Wednesday performance as dancers from the Visual Performing Arts Academy at Larkin High School in Elgin wove their way through smoke and lightning while balancing a giant orange peach.

The VPAA has performed its series of "Bring a Book to Life" shows since 2000.

This year marks the second time VPAA students have brought "James and the Giant Peach" to the stage.

The cast performed for Elgin Area School District U-46 students Wednesday and were to do so again for 700 more Thursday, and the show is open to the public at 7 p.m. Friday and 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday at the school, 1475 Larkin Ave. Tickets are $5 for students and $8 for adults and available at the school.

More than 30 student dancers have been learning and rehearsing since November. The Larkin Tech Club operates the lights and audio, and is responsible for behind the scenes work including making the props.

The peach, which grows to giant proportions on stage, is an inflatable weather balloon.

For more information, call (847) 888-5200, ext. 8420.