The garden behind the Creative Arts Center has been transformed into Neverland, complete with a pirate ship, the Lost Boys’ tree house, a mermaid’s lagoon, Tigerlily’s Indian camp and the Darling family’s nursery. The Kidz Krew performing arts program impressed audiences during the opening weekend of the beloved children’s story Peter Pan.
Bonham seventh grader Alex Passanisi plays the part of Peter Pan. Holly Kapp, Jack Hill and Sebastian Murden play the parts of the Darling children, Wendy, John and Michael, respectively. Dr. Gary Sisson brings the character Captain Hook alive, with John Duncan playing the part of sidekick Smee. Norman Young, Michael Pollock, Ethan Godbey, Nathan Webb and Kyra Watson make up the rest of the pirate crew.
The Lost Boys are played by Caleb Cundy, Kati Fortune, Joey Koo, Haiden McCurry, Rylan McCurry and Noah Bell. High schoolers Stephen Pollock and Kristin Hill play the parts of Mr. and Mrs. Darling and Carly Biggers plays housekeeper Eliza. Rebecca South plays the part of Nana, the nursemaid dog and her sister Jessica plays the part of a bird.
Cassidy Barber plays Tigerlily, leader of the Indians, which include Kate Kincade, Megan Murden and Jordan Passanisi. Mermaids are Sarah Dardiganian, Malorie Godbey, Sabrina LaRue, Ty Smith and Rebecca Wilson.
Rachael Eskue directed the production and expressed deep appreciate to Stephen Murden for his help in building the Neverland set. Justin Sterzer provided musical accompaniment for several scenes.
Sponsors of the production include Dr. David Rosenthal, Captain Hook (Dr. Gary Sisson), An Odd Duck Company, Whitlock Pawn, Fannin Pharmacy, Bonham Floral and Greenhouse, Lane's Flowers, Los Amigos, Matthew Passanisi, Roger & Diane Wheless and Chad & Amy Whisenhunt.
Opening weekend crowds raved about the show. The good news is that there are still three more chances to catch the show. On Friday and Saturday, Sept 28 & 29, the show will start at 7:30 pm at the Creative Arts Center at 200 W. 5th in Bonham. On Sunday, Sept 30 the final performance will begin at 2:05 p.m.
Advanced tickets are highly recommended as there is limited seating in the garden. The first two shows were at capacity. Tickets are $8 for Creative Arts Center members, $10 for non-members and $5 for children 9 and under. Call the Center at (903) 640-2196.
photos by Sandy Barber