‘Napoleon Dynamite’ anniversary tour brings cast and chaos to Cape Fear
Editor’s Note: For the full unedited interview, scroll to the bottom of this article.
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Grab your tots and brush up on your liger drawings — the cult classic Napoleon Dynamite is coming to life on stage at the Wilson Center.
Fans of the offbeat 2004 comedy will have the chance to relive the magic during a special event on Wednesday, May 21 at 7:30 p.m. The evening begins with a full screening of the film, followed by a lively and unscripted discussion with three of its beloved stars: Jon Heder (Napoleon), Efren Ramirez (Pedro), and Jon Gries (Uncle Rico).
Now celebrating its 20th anniversary, Napoleon Dynamite has left a lasting impression far beyond what the cast ever expected.
“We had no idea that it was gonna become so big,” Ramirez said. “We all started to work together on creating this movie that we all believed in.”
The live portion of the evening promises to be more than a traditional Q&A. It blends comedy improv, audience participation, and even the occasional game show element.
“Imagine if you’ve ever gone to a screening of a film that has a moderated Q&A afterwards,” Heder said. “Just imagine that, but with, um, a bit more… quesadillas and tots.”
Fans are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite characters — or creatures.
“The last time somebody dressed up as a liger,” Ramirez said. “That’s dedication.”
“They dressed up as the pencil sketch of the liger,” Heder added. “They looked like they were scribbled in graphite. It was cool.”
Audience members should expect the unexpected — and possibly a surprise visit from the cast mid-show.
“Don’t mind us as we come walking down your aisle and sit on your lap kind of vibe,” Heder joked.
Ramirez added with a laugh, “And who knows, you might get hit on the face with a steak.”
While the stars promise an unforgettable evening, they also hope the show brings people together.
“It’s really nice to see families get together and really watch the show,” Ramirez said. “And I’ll say this to everyone — if you come to the show, I guess all of your wildest dreams will come true… or something.”
Tickets for the event are available through Cape Fear Community College’s Wilson Center.
View the unedited interview here:
