Wednesday, May 12, 2004

“Peter Pan” takes flight this weekend

By LINDSAY BIANCHI
lbianchi@thecitizennews.com

East Coweta High School presents a musical this weekend with a few strings attached. J. M. Barrie’s “Peter Pan”, one of the most beloved stories of stage and literature for nearly 100 years follows on the heels of “Annie”, the first show to be performed at the New Performing Arts Center in Newnan. With the help of FX Flying, the Tennessee based company that helped elevate Cathy Rigby’s performance, Dr. Richard McMichen, head of the East Coweta Drama Department, hopes the chance to believe in fairies is back.

A cast of 28 kids portray the Darling family and all the inhabitants of Neverland. Peter Pan, played by Courtney Bailey, cut her hair especially for the show. Although a boy’s role, the part of Peter is traditionally played by a young girl. Wendy Darling, the young girl who discovers Peter chasing his shadow around her bedroom is played by Allison Rohan. It’s the beginning of a bittersweet tale of growing up leaving childhood behind. Wendy’s two brothers Michael played by Michael Dean and John, played by Kyle Lashley fly along “straight on till morning” to help Peter and his crew of eternally young adventurers, the Lost Boys battle Captain Hook, played by Jacob Hager.

Other cast members include Jesse Bockeneck as Tiger Lily, Melanie Yarborough as Mrs. Darling and Cindy Waite as Nana and the Croc. This musical adventure is great entertainment for all ages who still believe in the magic of childhood. Tickets are available at the door, $7 for adults and $5 for children.

WHAT: Musical of a classic children’s story

WHEN: May 13, 14 and 15, 7 p.m.

WHERE: New Performing Arts Center, Lower Fayetteville Road, Newnan

HOW MUCH: $7 adults, $5 children

FOR MORE INFO: Phone Richard McMichen 770-254-2850.