By TRILBY BERESFORD | Reporter
There are few things better than an evening filled with musical entertainment. “Peter Pan Jr.” opened at Pierson Playhouse on Friday, July 27, and the Palisadian-Post had the pleasure of attending Theatre Palisades Youth’s first show.
Director Lara Ganz helmed the production, along with assistant Emma Green. Together, they somehow wrangled 40 children and inspired them to remember their lines and perform joyously—no small feat.
Peter Pan was played by a girl, Jonny Oscarson, whose bubbliness was reminiscent of the many talented actors who have played orphan Annie in “Annie.”
The show was hearty and endearing, from the map of Neverland that kept falling off its stand at the side of the stage, to the fun costumes designed by Shane LaLonde from The Sew Chateau, to the whimsical and colorful stage design.
Many lines of dialogue were lovably memorable from the original story, such as “Tink, do you see my shadow? It’s gotta be around here somewhere.”
Zack Wein’s interpretation of Smee was rather brilliant; he had great presence and reacted well to the other actors. Lexi Sexton’s Tinkerbell was another standout—the girl can really sing, and she showed off tons of personality.
The use of rhythmic gymnastics was impressive, as was the sense of movement, particularly when Peter Pan emerges through Wendy’s bedroom window, and the moment that Captain Hook spies Peter Pan from his ship.
Among the song highlights: “Learning to Fly,” “Never Smile at a Crocodile,” “I Won’t Grow Up” and “You Can Fly.”
The show runs through Sunday, Aug. 5, with performances scheduled for Thursday at 7 p.m. through Sunday at 2 p.m.
Visit theatrepalisades.org for ticketing information.
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