Written as a prequel to J.M Barrie’s “Peter & Wendy” (or “Peter Pan”), “Peter and the Starcatcher” was written by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson in 2004. Reconceived by directors Roger Rees and Alex Timbers, writer Rick Elice, and composer Wayne Barker, “Peter & the Starcatcher” ran in NY (both off- and on-Broadway) from 2011-2014, where it received critical acclaim and won 5 Tony Awards. The story gives us all the answers as to how Neverland and all its inhabitants came to be. Through its story-theatre style, this play creates magical spaces and scenes through ensemble work and minimal sets. This forces the audience to use their imagination, which is essential both to the play and the story itself.
Personally, the story of “Peter Pan” has been one of my favorites for as long as I can remember: the magical world of Neverland; the good versus evil played out by Lost Boys and Pirates; the magical notions of flying, fairies, and a never-ending childhood. These adventures hit on all the essential components of a captivating children’s story. But the themes throughout this fun and fantastical story are what give it its timelessnesss and ability to resonate with so many different generations: the coming of age, the struggle of growing up, and the importance of family. In my opinion the play “Peter and the Starcatcher” brilliantly weaves these same themes together. And combined with the same lovable characters (plus several great additions) the backstory is explained through the same lens of magical curiosity as the original “Peter Pan”.
Neverland is a magical place, and I am so grateful to my team who helped to create it: Cheri Snook, who took my ideas and realized them in a way that exceeded all expectations; Robyn Watson, who created wonderful costumes to highlight the personalities of each character; and Dr. Joseph Ohrt and Todd Bunce, who tackled the music essential to the spirit of this non-musical. A huge thank you to my assistant directors: Phoenix Fritch and Luke David. These two extremely talented actors have lent their artistry and skills in acting, movement, music, and dialects to help create a truly special performance. I couldn’t have done this without you and I am grateful for your camaraderie and artistic input into every aspect of this show.
I have been very fortunate to return to CB West after a year off. Thank you to Tim Donovan, Regina Dudo, and Dave Hoffman, for your support and appreciation for the performing arts. Thank you to the parents who have been extremely helpful and supportive. Thank you to the members of the Harlequin Club: you are a talented group of students and I have enjoyed every single rehearsal. Harlequin Club Officers—Emilie Ahr, Nora Dowdell, Lily Bunce, Shamus Bonner, Grant Nalty, Taylor Mitchell, and Lydia Lepping—thank you for all your help and your positivity. I can’t wait to embark on “Beauty and the Beast” with you!
~Jessica Bostock, Director
