Peter Pan Flies High with Kids, Performers, Fans

A classic childhood favorite to many, Peter Pan was this year's Arroyo Vista Children's Theater production.

John Toole and Julia Rios, who portrayed Peter Pan and Tinker Bell, led a cast of 107 children in the six performances at Arroyo Vista Elementary School from March 17-26. This version of Peter Pan was based on the story by J.M. Barrie with music by Piers Chater-Robinson, and it was produced by Staci Hansen with help from coordinator Kim Moncrief. The production was directed by Dawn Huff.

The first act opened with a song and a starry night as Peter and Tinker Bell led the three Darling children, Wendy (played by Amy Noval), John (Connor Pope) and Michael (Jeric Rogers) over the rooftops of London and away to Neverland.

The play included the lovable villian Captain Hook, who was portrayed by Rylee Moncrief, and his quirky sidekicks Smee (Chase Gadomski) and Starkey (Kennidy Johnson). There was no shortage of indians, mermaids, fairies, pirates, Lost Boys and tick-tocking crocodiles to make the play complete.

In 2005 the Arroyo Vista Children's Theater lost its beloved leader, Barbara Mehner. According to its website, Mehner's "spirit and passion for Arroyo Vista Children's Theater grew out of a desire to provide the theatrical experience to as many children as possible in a nuturing environment." It is dedicated to continuing the theater in her and her family's name. 

This production of Peter Pan exceedingly lived up to that promise. Mehner's youngest daughter, Ally Mehner, played her own role behind the scenes as a member of the light crew. Her smile and passion shined bright as she introduced the play along sidefellow light crew member Lindsay Hansen.

AVCT productions  historically have the children perform every role on stage and many off stage as well, and this year was no exception. This includes stage crew, set up crew, makeup and lighting crews. Each year the productions are staffed entirely by volunteers who work endless hours sewing costumes, building sets and guiding the children through the set process of memorization, rehearsal practice and teamwork to meet the goal of putting on the show.

Their hard work, creativity, talent and passion showed through to the very last song and had the crowd waiting in line for autographs and photos afterward.

Get updates and information about future shows through the Arroyo Vista Children's Theater website.