Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson’s book was adapted for the stage by Rick Elice in a clever script detailing the back story of Peter Pan, Captain Hook and the Lost Boys. Only eleven men and one woman inhabit all manner of characters and at the same time create many elements of the set through intricate, imaginative choreography… I want to say “fight choreography” but also “meteorological choreography” and “rope-room choreography.” Directors/choreographer Anna Owens and Garrett Bradley must be inspirational slave drivers.
The fantasyland set tossed us on stormy seas, in two different ships, and onto a magical island in act two (set design Dirk Rennick and Dan Wenzlick.) The mermaids were sensational, with the help of Mistie Jordan’s wild costume design, realized by multiple “costume builders.”
Isabella Abuan was a very talented and heroic performer as the brave, charming and accomplished “leader” Molly (ALmost making me forget to pout about the only-one role-for-a-female.) Mathieu Wiesner was the beleaguered orphan who becomes Peter Pan — even more amazing when I realized we had recently seen him play an excellent Sky Masterson in East Lansing High’s Guys and Dolls. Joe Quick aced multiple roles, including a coquettish Mrs. Bumbrake. Michael Windnagle was an impishly pirate-ical Smee. The deliciously vain and evil role of Black Stache, the future Hook, was reveled in by the talented Adam Woolsey (who will next appear in Riverwalk’s Catch Me If You Can in June.)
It is well worth the drive to Owosso to catch some of this magical “star stuff.” Peter and the Starcatcher continues through April 30 - 8pm & 3pm Sundays. Adults – $15, Senior/Student – $13.50, Child (12 and under) – $7.50
All tickets carry a $1.50 ticketing fee
https://owossoplayers.com