Marion, Indiana – The much-anticipated production of Peter and the Starcatcher, a magical and adventurous prequel to the beloved tale of Peter Pan, is set to hit the stage at the F. Ritchie Walton Performing Arts Center at Marion High School this May. Tickets are now on sale for the Tony Award-winning play, which promises to deliver an unforgettable experience filled with humor, high-seas adventure, and heart. The performances will be held on May 9 and 10 at 7 p.m. and a matinee on May 11 at 2 p.m. This captivating show is sure to delight audiences of all ages and leave them enchanted by its whimsical story and talented young cast.
Based on the best-selling novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson, Peter and the Starcatcher brings to life the thrilling journey of a nameless orphan boy and his band of shipmate friends. They embark on a wild adventure after discovering a mysterious substance known as “starstuff.” This magical element has the power to grant wishes, setting the stage for an epic clash with treacherous pirates, as well as a courageous girl named Molly, who plays a key role in the plot. At the heart of the story is the flamboyantly villainous Black Stache, whose antics provide plenty of humor and excitement. Through their journey, the characters discover friendship, bravery, and the magic that exists in the world around them.
This imaginative and heartwarming tale, adapted for the stage by Rick Elice with music by Wayne Barker, is sure to captivate audiences with its unique blend of humor, creativity, and action. The play has won widespread acclaim for its ability to bring new life to the well-known world of Peter Pan, shedding light on the early days of the characters and the adventures that led to the classic story many know and love today. The production is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI), and all authorized performance materials are provided by MTI.
Tickets for the show can be purchased online at www.csa-marion.com/tickets or in person at Marion Community School of the Arts, located at 305 S. Adams Street, Marion. Tickets are available for purchase Monday through Thursday, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. For those wishing to purchase tickets closer to the showtime, they will be available at the door one hour before each performance. Keep in mind that ticket prices increase by $2 at the door. Doors will open for seating 30 minutes before the show begins, so guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure their spots for this not-to-be-missed performance.
The cast of Peter and the Starcatcher features young performers from around the county, many of whom are part of the rigorous CSA Theatre compANY, which provides pre-professional training in acting, vocal technique, dance, theatrical design, and production. These talented students, aged 10 to 18, have dedicated themselves to honing their craft, and their commitment shines through in every performance. Their hard work and dedication to their art make this production a true testament to the talent within the community.
The cast includes several students from Marion High School and McCulloch Junior High School, including seniors such as Grace Chandler, Xavier Wood, and Isaiah Stevens, who have been a part of the CSA Arts Academy. Juniors, sophomores, freshmen, and even middle school students from McCulloch Junior High, like Sophi Gentry, Theo Gipson, Tallulah Gibson, and Cecilia Hancock, also bring their impressive skills to the stage. These students have been trained through the CSA Arts Academy program, which is an exclusive partnership between Marion Community Schools and Marion Community School of the Arts. This collaboration provides pre-professional arts training alongside the benefits of a traditional public school education.
The CSA Arts Academy, established in 2016, has earned a reputation for producing talented young artists, with many alumni continuing their education at prestigious post-secondary institutions, including The Juilliard School, the American Musical and Dramatic Academy (AMDA), Belmont University, and more. The Academy’s focus on providing rigorous arts training while maintaining a strong academic foundation prepares students for success both on and off the stage.
For more information about the CSA Arts Academy and how it supports students in pursuing their passions for the arts, visit the school’s website.
As the curtain rises on Peter and the Starcatcher, the talented young performers of the CSA Theatre compANY are ready to transport audiences into a world of magic, adventure, and unforgettable characters. The production is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who attend, making it a perfect outing for families and theater lovers alike.
Don’t miss your chance to experience this thrilling, heartwarming prequel to Peter Pan at the Walton Performing Arts Center in Marion. With a talented cast, a captivating story, and an exciting atmosphere, Peter and the Starcatcher is sure to be one of the most memorable performances of the year.
