Enchanted audiences will be gazing up as Peter Pan and the Darling children fly away to adventures in Neverland. Behind the curtain, crew members will be watching above as they coordinate the fly system. Last week, preschoolers arriving at carpool looked up in astonishment to see the costumed characters of Peter Pan. Then, dressed in their own costumes, K4 students attended a Peter Pan Preview. The cast performed a number from the show, and the enamored preschoolers took photos with cast members.
Looking up to someone is a recurring theme associated with “Peter Pan: A Musical Adventure,” set to open this weekend at Jackson Academy’s Performing Arts Center. Show times during October 21 through 23 are Saturday and Monday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m.
Under the direction of Director of Performing Arts Kerri Sanders, the professional caliber production involves significant preparation on many levels. Actors on stage and crew members behind the curtains learned about the PAC’s fly system from the professional company, ZFX Flying Effects. Students and parents, led by Technical Directors, Andy Prince and Chris Lloyd, have constructed elaborate sets, including a crocodile as large as a Jeep. The Theatre Production class is highly involved in the building. Director of Choral Music Garrett Lindsey has worked with actors, crew, and musicians, including orchestrating music to time correctly with the flights of Peter, Wendy, and her siblings.
In the video below, the cast and crew of JA’s “Peter Pan: A Musical Adventure” offer a behind-the-scenes peek at the planning, orchestration, and training required to fly Peter, Wendy, John, and Michael to Neverland. Join JA for the complete show on October 21 through 23.
