Kirk Players celebrates 25 years of kids' shows with 'Peter Pan and Wendy'
Kirk Players is pleased to announce the next show, "Peter Pan and Wendy," based on the classic fantasy-adventure novel by J.M. Barrie and adapted by Doug Rand.
The spring children's show, opening at 7 p.m. Friday, April 6, at Mundelein High School Theatre, features all of the famous characters that have been loved for generations, plus an exciting set, unique costumes, and a few special surprises. Further performances of "Peter Pan and Wendy" will be at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 6 and 7, and at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 7 and 8.
Tickets may be purchased through the Kirk Players website www.kirkplayers.org or by calling (847) 521-6192. Tickets may also be purchased at the door.
"Our children's show series underscores the mission of the Kirk Players in a very unique way: to help bring live family entertainment to Lake County and not only give back to the community, but really involve it," director Jon Matousek said. "It truly is a community event, just ask the parents of our student performers."
"When Paddy Lynn introduced the children's show series 25 years ago, along with our Free Children's Summer Workshop, I believe she envisioned the extraordinary community bonding that has taken place as a result," he said.
Stage manager and makeup designer Lisa Willems reflected on author J.M Barrie, himself.
"Nothing is really work unless you would rather be doing something else," he said, noting how much fun the students and "more seasoned" performers have had working with each other during rehearsals.
More than 20 students representing 14 schools in central Lake County are involved in "Peter Pan and Wendy."
Carl Sandburg Middle School eighth grader Brooke Mellon plays the carefree and cocky leader of the Lost Boys, Peter Pan.
Kimberly Barr, a Junior at Mundelein High School, is playing Wendy.
"This is my third Kirk Players show," she said. "I used to watch the Disney movie when I was young. I am so excited to have a primary part and to be in such a well-loved show."
Henry Hogan is John Darling, Diego Chapa is Michael Darling, and Lia Kagan is Tinkerbell. Shannon Ouimet of Fremont Middle School and Kirk Player Meghan Lane play the engaging Storytellers.
Kirk Player Patrick Blake will take on the role of chief bad guy, Captain James Hook. His two henchmen, Smee and Starkey, will be portrayed by Randy Rice and Jeff Harding, respectively. Jess Motyka will play the part of big hearted Mrs. Darling, newcomer John Haderlein will be breathing life into the fun-loving Mr. Darling, and iconic Kirk Player Gary Gunther will be lurking about as the Crocodile.
Assistant director Amy Sharer, assistant stage manager Gretchen Grassl and technical director Jeff Harding round out the production management team.
Technical expertise is provided by Brenda Sparks (set design), Fred Vipond (costume design), Emily Larsen (props design), Gary Gunther (special effects and weapons design), Justin Sanchak (sound design), Sara Gunther (lighting design), Jeanna Daebellien (choreography) and Jon L. Lynn (sword fight instruction and dialect coach).
Founded in 1966, the Kirk Players is a not-for-profit corporation of volunteers with the purpose of providing service to the community through the arts. Revenue from productions is invested back into the community to support the arts and art programs. While based in Mundelein, the Kirk Players work throughout Lake County.
Mundelein High School is at 1350 W. Hawley St., Mundelein.
This production is for all ages. For information and tickets, visit www.kirkplayers.org or call (847) 521-6192.
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