By Eva Trieger
VISTA, California- If you believe in fairies, clap your hands, and if you believe in enchanted summer evenings, give it up for Moonlight Amphitheater. A hearty round of applause was precisely what greeted the live orchestra and large cast who performed Peter Pan last week.
This show first came to Broadway in 1954, and has earned 9 Tony Award nomination and more recently, an award for the Best Revival of a Musical. Broadway does not hold exclusive history to this show. Steven Glaudini, now Moonlight’s Artistic Director,made his very Moonlight debut as Mr. Smee back in 1996. Now, from a different vantage point, he enjoys the show’s complexity and depth. Yes, it is a children’s tale, but with so many messages and teachable moments, it ignites thought and discussion.
Peter Pan boasts many award winning actors, along with some relative newcomers. This reviewer especially enjoyed Captain Hook (Robert J. Townsend) Smee (James Vasquez) and Wendy (Jill Townsend), but it was the pirates that stole the show. Kevin Burroughs , Kyle Hawk, Jacob Narcy, Ala Tiatia, and Quinton Walker were menacing, humorous, filled with bravado and fabulous dancers. Each time they took to the stage they elevated the entire show. Their choreography was fabulous, their musical numbers magnetic and their swaggers, spellbinding.
The venue is divine and has recently enjoyed a facelift, making it the idyllic place for a summer picnic before the play. The grounds also boasts a restaurant where gourmet offerings are available. The ample parking makes the experience even more accessible and positive.
It’s exciting to note that the orchestra includes a Musician Mentorship program. For Peter Pan four students from Carlsbad High School, Vista High School and Westview High School, performed under the tutelage of professional musicians. What a great opportunity to learn from a master! The sponsor for this fantastic opportunity is Barbara Weiler, but Moonlight can always use additional support.
J.M. Barrie wrote this book in 1902, and through many gyrations the play has been shared with global audiences. Frequently, Peter is portrayed by a woman, as was true in the Moonlight adaptation. Misty Cotton donned tights, aerial aparatus, and her shadow, to deliver Peter to us, flawlessly. Her movements, facial expressions and tempermant were consistent with the young, obstinate boy she was portraying. Peter’s insistence that he will never grow up, are made obvious to the theatergoer, through word and deed.
I had forgotten how this show promotes so many stereotypes that do not flatter nor encourage women to be independent. This is not a criticism of the show, more a commentary on the time period in which the story was written. Wendy was portrayed as a strong woman who was loved and respected, but I’d have enjoyed seeing her more self possessed and not only relegated to the role of “sewing on pockets” or providing sustenance. But just like in real life, few people ask for my opinion.
If you enjoy solid entertainment and a fabulous adaptation of a classic, clap your hands and hustle your feet over to the sensational Moonlight Amphitheater for a night of sheer joy, nostalgia and innocence.
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Trieger is a freelance writer specializing in coverage of the arts. She may be contacted via eva.trieger@sdjewishworld.com. Comments intended for publication in the space below MUST be accompanied by the letter writer’s first and last name and by his/ her city and state of residence (city and country for those outside the United States.)
An evening at Moonlight Amphitheater watching actors fly across the set, is well worth the low price of an admission ticket or the clever investment in a subscription. “Peter Pan” will run through
August 6, 2016 and tickets may be purchased at moonlightstage.com or by phone at 760.724.2110. Sorry, no crocodiles allowed.