Geneva High School sets sail with ‘Peter and the Starcatcher’

When actors at Geneva High School dream, they dream big, and soon those dreams will take flight: all it takes is a little faith.

While many may be familiar with the tales of Peter Pan, Captain Hook, and Tinkerbell, one simple question was left unanswered: how did they all come to be? When did boy become hero and pirate become villain?

Geneva High School’s latest comedic fall play, “Peter and the Starcatcher,” paints the origin stories of many of these J.M. Barrie characters. Complimented by the ancient speech of dodo, a swashbuckling romance, and the spontaneous dance number the show ensures the audience will be rolling in the aisles with laughter.

The shows will be 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, Nov. 12-13, and 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, in Geneva High School’s auditorium, 416 McKinley Ave. Tickets are $10 or $7 for seniors and students in pre-kindergarten to high school. Tickets can be purchased online at ticketpeak.co/genevahighschool304/events.

Junior Marianne Crowley can attest to the show’s comedic timing. “It’s an entertaining show that will have them laughing out loud the whole time, and while the style can be challenging, our hard work is paying off!,” Crowley said.

Navigating the stage with commanding pirate ships is challenging for the actors, but Geneva students haven’t been known to shy away from a challenge.

Senior Lucie Mathias, playing Molly Aster, states that “while the blocking has been challenging, it’s what makes the show really come to life!”

At the helm are directors Jason Fontanetta and Drew Longo.

Fontanetta helps paint the big picture, whether that’s perfecting the comedic delivery of lines, or ensuring all actors have their own spotlight on stage and help fill the scene. Drew Longo, a Geneva English teacher and theater director, works on the finer details. He helps to ensure that every actor truly embodies their character and ensures that each role reaches its full potential.

Together with usic Director Jessica Heinrich, Technical Director Liv Frullani, the costuming expertise of Stephanie Nemeth, and a dedicated crew that master lights, set design, and props, all members involved can agree that they’re ready to embrace their inner pirate and take a leap of faith to let their performance soar for a live audience.