Big: The Musical opens tonight at Eisenhower

A 12-year-old boy wishes to become a man and his wish is miraculously granted.

Sound familiar? Probably because it is the premise behind the popular 1988 film "Big," starring Tom Hanks.

Now the film has made its way to the stage -- Big: The Musical comes at 8 tonight to Eisenhower Auditorium, made possible by Penn State's Center for the Performing Arts.

The musical version resembles the screenplay in many ways; the musical even incorporates the famous "Chopsticks" scene.

"My favorite scene in the movie is when they play 'Chopsticks' on the giant keyboard. I hope that scene is in the play, too," Autumn McDermott (sophomore-elementary education) said.

The Broadway version debuted in April 1996, but -- despite receiving five Tony Award nominations -- was not an instant hit with audiences.

As in the film, the musical involves the use of traditional ballads, comical rap songs and dancing.

"Big was one of my favorite movies," McDermott said. "I hope the play lives up to my expectations."

Tickets are available at the Eisenhower Box Office; for more information, call the box office at 863-0255.

--by Kate Davis