Stage Door News
Stage Door News
GRAND BEND – The 2014 Season at the Huron Country Playhouse II closes with the legendary adventures of Peter Pan. Theatregoers young and old are whisked away to Never Never Land in this traditional British panto that combines elements of fantasy, adventure, unforgettable characters, and plenty of comedy. Peter Pan entertains now through August 30th.
“Peter Pan is family entertainment at its best,” says Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment. “The classic story is retold with an amazing cast of characters and sensational music that is sure to delight and have audiences rooting for the hero and booing the villain. It’s a fun and interactive form of theatre that allows everyone to share in the magic.”
Based on the popular story by J.M. Barrie, this enchanting adaptation is written by Simon Aylin and Trudy Moffatt. The pair has wonderfully preserved the traditional tale and infused it with tons of energy and humour to create a classic British panto. Theatregoers of all ages can’t help being drawn into the hilarity!
In this beloved story about a boy who would not grow up, audiences embark on thrilling adventures soaring to the stars, swimming with mermaids, and battling swashbuckling pirates. You’ll meet your favourite characters including Peter, the Lost Boys, the Darling children, the villainous Captain Hook … and a few new eccentrics!
AJ Bridel is ideally suited for the role of Peter Pan. Her marvellous singing voice and playful demeanour are brilliantly showcased, even through flight and fight as she keeps everyone rooting for Peter Pan’s victory.
Thom Allison is terrific in the dual role of patriarch Mr. Darling and the evil Captain Hook. Allison captures the spirit of the infamous scoundrel, portraying Hook with the perfect balance of villainy and humour. Children especially take great joy in booing him, while laughing at his outlandish antics.
Melanie Phillipson delivers a warm and affectionate performance as Mrs. Darling while also tackling the role of Tiger Lily, the brave and beautiful Indian Princess, in which she delights.
Making their Drayton Entertainment debuts in this production are Eric LeClair as Michael, the littlest of the Darling children, and Nikki Ponte, who gives a cheerful portrayal of big sister Wendy Darling. Joining them as middle child John is Trek Buccino, delivering the perfect amount of maturity and cleverness.
A British panto wouldn’t be complete without a few surprises and Aiden deSalaiz is exceptionally funny as the outrageous character, Delilah the Cook. His over-the-top costumes bring plenty of laughs, and are only surpassed by his sheer brilliant comedic timing.
Captain Hook’s dutiful sidekick, Smee, is played by Eric Da Costa. Engaging audiences with his lovable style and witty humour, Da Costa is delightfully entertaining as the sensitive underling.
Michael Barber, Justine Clark, Rachel Clark, Jason Franco, Dani Jazzar, Grant Landry, Matt Lima, Dave Thompson, and Christine Watson round out an impressive ensemble cast.
Also appearing in this production are 34 local youth who are cast as the Lost Boys and dancers.
The Lost Boys are portrayed by Evan Graham, John Graham, Eleanor Guy, Ewan Hartman, Eddie Jazzar, Alivia Judge, Keenan Ramseyer, Blake Scatcherd, Gabriel Sizeland and Pierce Smith.
Annika Archibald, Julia Barrett, Zoe Brown, Stella Deeks, Isabela Filice, Leah Gliddon, Lauren Gracey, Grace Hakala, Sydney Harvey, Rianna Johnstone, Maya Lacey, Zoe Lacey, Mya Lamport, Montanah Lucas, Lauren Makinson, Erin Makinson, Rachel McClymont, Amber McNeil, Josie Murray, Amelia Phillips, Larisa Shea, Rebecca Smith, Shae Solomon and Grace Worsley are the youth dancers who perform in rotating schedules throughout the run.
Director and Choreographer David Connolly demonstrates an obvious flare for pantomimes as he delivers a winning production. Credited with such past Drayton Entertainment hits as Disney’s High School Musical, Connolly has again succeeded in mounting a production that captivates young audiences.
Music Director Michael Barber leads a phenomenal orchestra through romantic ballads, clever comedic songs, and show-stopping production numbers in a musical score that is perfectly crafted to accompany this whimsical story.
Jean-Claude Olivier has designed an extraordinary set that includes a fantastic rendition of the Jolly Roger pirate ship. His vision of the iconic moments in this classic tale will undoubtedly resonate with audiences. Lighting Designer Simon Day has created a visibly dreamy mood for the production with layers of complexity that are achieved through unique use of light. Costume Designer Angela Vanderveen has brilliantly captured the essence of each character. Her costumes are full of vibrant colors to make each character stand out beautifully. The characters in this production soar through the air courtesy of the renowned aerial experts at ZFX Flying Effects.
“I couldn’t think of a better show to end this exceptional summer of entertainment on the shores of Lake Huron,” says Mustakas. “Peter Pan is a high-flying fantasy that’s perfect for summer and offers plenty of family fun.”
Peter Pan is proudly sponsored by Commercial Print Craft. Media Sponsors are NewsTalk 1290 CJBK and The London Free Press. The Design Sponsor is Libro Credit Union. The Youth Theatre Education Sponsor is TD Canada Trust. The 2014 Season Media Sponsor is CTV.
Tickets are $42 for adults and $25 for Youth under 20 years of age. Tickets for groups of 20 or more are $34. HST is applicable to all ticket prices.
Peter Pan is onstage now through August 30th. Tickets are on sale now and can be conveniently purchased from any computer or mobile device by visiting www.huroncountryplayhouse.com, in person at the Box Office, or by calling (519) 238-6000 or toll free 1-855- DRAYTON (372-9866).
Photo: Thom Allison as Captain Hook. ©2014 John Sharp.
2014-08-07
Grand Bend: "Peter Pan" panto style opens tonight at the Huron Country Playhouse