Here is a story with a real ‘hook’!
Talented local young performers have beaten off strong competition from hundreds of other youngsters from throughout the North West, to secure coveted lead juvenile roles in the most eagerly awaited musical visiting The Brindley, Runcorn.
They will appear when ABD’s professional production of “Peter Pan” flies into the Halton Borough Council venue next month.
The lead role of Tinker Bell will be shared by 12-year-old Keira Whitlock from Clubmoor, and nine-year-old Marnie Duggan from West Derby. Keira attends Holly Lodge Girls College and Liverpool North Stagecoach whilst Marnie is a pupil at St Pauls Junior School and has also appeared in various productions with LIPA.
Sharing the role of Tiger Lily will be sisters Katie (15) and Ashley Kaufman (14) from Speke. Both girls attend St Peter & Pauls School in Widnes.
Joining them in the role of Michael Darling will be 8 year old Mackenzie Pagan from Walton Village making his debut stage appearance.
The professional ABD Productions cast are working with several teams of local youngsters in the run up to the performances.
Director/ writer Anne Dalton said “I wanted to give so many of your talented youngsters the opportunity of working with our company on this large scale production. I don’t normally take so many into this production on tour but I was so spoilt for choice at audition I couldn’t resist!”
Based on the much loved classic by J. M. Barrie, the musical is a swashbuckling romp from start to finish, fast paced and colourful with energetic fights and flying. Apart from Peter Pan, The Darlings, Captain Hook, his sidekick Smee, the pirate crew of the Jolly Roger, Indians and Lost Boys there are some exciting episodes from Barrie’s original story introducing new friends.
The Neverbird, a nosey, know-it all feathered friend, romps and gossips happily with the audience, leading them through the story. Dancing Planets and Spheres light the way across the sky, Water Sprites and Dragonflies inhabit the Mermaid Lagoon while the Friendly Flames help to rescue Peter.
Anne Dalton is best known for her sell out musical “Her Benny” which won the International Quest For New Musicals, judged by Cameron Mackintosh and Richard Stilgoe and is currently on tour, along with several of her other musicals.
She said she was delighted to be returning to The Brindley and she has been overwhelmed by the talent and professionalism of all involved and the welcome she and ABD Productions always receive.
Tickets for this sensational production which runs from Thursday 27 to Sunday 30 July matinees and evenings, can be booked in person at The Brindley, via the booking line on 0151 907 8360, or online at www.thebrindley.org.uk.