Peter Pan Opens Tonight at King's Wharf Theatre!

Second Star to the Right Shines Brightly on
King’s Wharf Theatre

Thursday, June 5^th, 2014

PENETANGUISHENE – The 2014 Season at the King’s Wharf Theatre opens 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 June 21^st.

“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 humor 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 Aidan 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.

Justine Clark, Rachel Clark, Jason Franco, Dani Jazzar, Grant Landry and Christine Watson round out an impressive ensemble cast.

Also appearing in this production are 35 local youth who are cast as the Lost Boys and dancers.

The Lost Boys are portrayed by William Alexander, Ian Beausoleil, Meghan Brown, Eleanor Guy, Owen Hinton, Andrew McLeod, Jason Moore, Ryan Moore, William Parry, Korol Pikulik, Liam Corrigan Ross.

Emily Adams, Hannah Billedeau, Hannah Black, Sophia Crawford Bald, Annie Corrigan Ross, Payge Dayler, Jory Harris, Claire Johnson,  Kira Keith, Tayla Keith, Alexandra Kuniewski, Elizabeth Laplante, Katie Laplante, Sydney Marion, Isabel Reader, Emma Reynolds, Kaija Robillard, Emma Robitaille,  Alyssa Salway, Tori St. Amant, Anastasia Stevens, Eden Stora Samantha Tate, Sarah Watt 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, Dance Legends, Miss Saigon, Crazy For You and, most recently, Legally Blonde: The Musical, Connolly has again succeeded in mounting a production that captivates audiences.

Music Director Michael Barber leads a phenomenal band through romantic ballads, clever comedic songs, and show-stopping production numbers in a musical score that is perfectly crafted to accompany this whimsical story. The Band features Barber on Keys I, Matt Lima on Bass Dave Thompson on Guitar, David Myers on Keys II and Craig Snowden on Percussion.

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. Fight Director Joe Bostick adds the final theatrical touches to this wonderful show.  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 launch what promises to be an exceptional summer of entertainment on the shores of Georgian Bay,” 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 Elmvale Jungle Zoo. Media Sponsors are CHAY Today 93.1 and 104.1 The Dock. The Design Sponsor is Midland Tours Inc. The Youth Theatre Education Sponsor is TD Canada Trust. The 2014 Season Media Sponsor is CTV.

With many dates already sold out, theatregoers are encouraged to book seats for Peter Pan as soon as possible. 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 June 21^st. Tickets can be purchased online at www.kingswharftheatre.com, in person at the Box Office, or by calling (705) 549-5555 or toll free 1-855- DRAYTON (372-9866).

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For more information please contact:

Valerie O’Brien, Marketing Manager
Drayton Entertainment
valerie@draytonentertainment.com
Phone: (519) 621-5511 ext. 235