If you couldn’t guess from the title, my fourth musical entry is about the childhood classic that is Peter Pan. More specifically, Peter Pan Jr, but that does not have a great effect on the story. My middle school put on this production when I was in sixth grade, and it was one of the most fun and wholesome experiences that I have ever had. I played the part of Hop, who was one of the Lost Boys.

The energy, magic, and nostalgic songs made this production incredibly special. As an impressionable sixth grader, I learned more about myself and my love for musical theatre during this confusing time in my adolescent life, as everyone goes through at that time. I had only been in one musical prior to Peter Pan Jr, and that was when I was in fourth grade. I was a shy kid who was learning to make friends, but this show brought me out of my shell in a way that was unexpected. I found my passion for singing and acting, for the part of a Lost Boy is full of energy and comedic timing. “Following the Leader” is the main song that the Lost Boys sing, and it is sure to stick in your ear for days upon hearing it.

Apart from my experience in the show, this musical is the complete package. Whether it be the songs, the dancing, the iconic duo of Captain Hook and Mr. Smee, or the classic Disney magic, there is something in it for everyone.

 I originally auditioned for the part of Mr. Smee, for I wanted to be the comedic sidekick, but the part was given to an eighth grader with more experience than me (understandably). Looking back, I wouldn’t have had it any other way, for I was able to gain more knowledge from the older kids while being a smaller part in the show. My role of Hop (which included me wearing a hat with rabbit ears, suspenders, and rolled up jeans) was responsible for shooting down the “Wendy-bird” at the request of a jealous Tinkerbell. This was one of my favorite parts, for Peter Pan wanted to banish my character for the crime he committed, and I had to plead with him to let me stay in his clan of misfits.

Thankfully, I have kept in contact with many of my friends from that show, my college roommate included! Theatre, and musical theatre, forms lifelong bonds between people, which is one of many reasons why it is one of my passions.

I am curious to hear what you would like to hear my thoughts on next! Apart from the shows that I have already talked about, I have been in Bye Bye Birdie (9^th grade), Once Upon a Mattress Jr (7^th grade), Aesop’s Musical Fables (4^th grade), and Beauty and the Beast (10^th grade). Let me know your thoughts!