By Eileen Wingard
LA JOLLA, California — The J Company’s production of Peter Pan is playing for two more weekends at the David and Dorthea Garfield Theatre at the Lawrence Family JCC.
As grandmother of Adira Rosen, in the title role, I, of course am interested in encouraging all to see this musical. But, rather than tell you my impressions of my talented grandchild, which you might consider somewhat biased, I will quote others.
When I arrived at the Astor Judaica Library last Friday to do my weekly volunteer work, a smiling Marcia Tatz Wollner, Director of Literary Arts and Educational Resources, entered. On the way to her office, she came by to tell me, “That role is made for Adira, she is as good as Mary Martin.” Marcia had watched part of the morning performance of the two shows the company was doing for full houses of bussed-in students.
After opening night, Adira’s mother, my daughter Myla, introduced me to Rabbi Yael Ridberg of Dor Hadash, San Diego’s Reconstructionist Congregation, who commented, “Usually Adira manages to steal the show in supporting roles. This time, she IS the show!”
Then there was the email from Tracy Hirschfeld, vocalist, piano teacher and pilates teacher:
“Adira was the essence of Peter Pan. There could be none better. Whether the role is large or small, Adira lights up the stage with her own special magic. “
Of course there were many other excellent performers. Joey Landwehr, Artistic Director of the prize-winning company has a special knack for casting. He also has the uncanny ability to direct a cast and crew of over 100 youngsters, teaching them not only how to act and sing, but how to practice good behavior and consideration for others.
Among the excellent performers was Julia Price, who gave a strong portrayal in the trouser role of Captain Hook. With hook extending from one arm, an ample beard and moustache, a tall hat and flowing cape, she cut a dominant figure and delivered her lines well. Jeanne Barber was a lovely Tinker Bell and Gabi Leibowitz did a good job acting and singing the part of a devoted older sister who knew how to engage her little brothers in stories about Peter Pan.
John Herman, although often involved in crewing for shows, was on stage for the first time and sounded mature as Mr. Darling, father of the children and as the Indian Chief Tiger Bamboo. He spoke clearly in a deep voice.
Gabriel Mayer gave a convincing performance as Smee, Captain Hook’s pirate assistant and Eitan Acks, hidden in a crocodile suit, danced around like a menacing, musical reptile.
In addition to performance Saturday nights, Oct. 1 and 8 at 8:00 p.m. and Sundays, Nov. 2 and 9 at 1:00 p.m. and at 4:30 p.m., the company will do a special show for the Rady Children’s Hospital.
The show lasts 90 minutes, including intermission.
To order tickets, call box office: 858-362-1348.
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Wingard is a freelance writer who specializes in coverage of the arts. She may be contacted via eileen.wingard@sdjewishworld.com