The Perry High School Music and Drama departments will perform “Peter Pan: And Your Heart Will Fly on Wings” both Friday and Saturday at the Perry Performing Arts Center.
Tuesday the cast and crew put on an all-school series of performances, entertaining the entire student bodies from all Perry public schools and St. Patrick’s Catholic school.
One section of elementary and the St. Patrick’s students were entertained first, with a second set of elementary students following. The high school student body were the third group see their classmates’ efforts, with the middle school students the final group to see a well-done performance.
While the students were treated to a sampling of scenes, the entire production awaits the public at 6:30 p.m. both Friday, March 31 and Saturday, April 1, with a 1 p.m. matinee also offered Saturday.
Those wishing to share a more intimate experience are invited to attend a special event, “Tea with Captain Hook and Wendy,” which be held at 4 p.m. Saturday in the PHS Commons. Fans will enjoy desserts and beverages with the curmudgeonly captain, portrayed by Keegan Eastman, and Miss Wendy Darling, played by Adriana Eastman. Other characters may possibly make guest appearances.
Tickets for the show are $5 for adults and $4 for students and are on sale now in the high school office. For more information, call 515-465-3503. Tickets for “Tea With Captain Hook and Wendy” are also $5 and can also be purchased in the high school office or at the Friday evening or Saturday matinee performances.
Students plainly appreciated what they saw, with laughter, applause and many ooohs and aaahs coming from the audience, particularly the elementary kids, who clearly loved seeing Peter Pan (Breanna Penenger) fly high above the stage.
Vocal Music Instructor Jenn Nelson noted the huge cast includes 60 students, ranging from second graders to seniors, and Peter’s entourage, the Lost Boys, are portrayed by 14 boys from grades 2-8.
Longtime PHS Drama Coach Merrilee Bales came out of retirement to assist in the production.
Show goers will be treated to music from a live pit orchestra, several huge sets, incredible costumes, delightful choreography and many surprises, including high-wire flying across the stage.
The Perry Performing Arts Center is located at 1200 18th St. in Perry.
