Arts

Cool off with a mid-summer musical

Lyndsey Raynor | Catholic Herald Intern

Mr. Smee, played by Jacob Lash, is threatened by Captain Hook, played by Gabe Duda, in Upper Room Theatre Ministry’s production of “Peter Pan.”

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Mr. Smee, played by Jacob Lash, threatens Indian princess TigerLily, played by Jessi Rexroad, in Upper Room Theatre Ministry’s production of “Peter Pan.”

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The pirate Starkey, played by Nate McGraw, struggles with Indian princess TigerLily, played by Jessi Rexroad, in Upper Room Theatre Ministry’s production of “Peter Pan.”

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Jeanne Myers plays Wendy Darling in Upper Room Theatre Ministry’s production of “Peter Pan.”

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The Upper Room Theatre Ministry of All Saints Performing Arts Center in Manassas will present the beloved musical “Peter Pan” July 14-19.

The show promises to be a spectacular experience full of pirates and mermaids, pixie dust and swordfighting, and, of course, flying. “Peter Pan” appeals to audiences of all ages, especially children.

Adapted from the 1956 Broadway version of the musical, this production stands out from other “Peter Pan” productions because of flight.

With help from funds raised by last year’s production of “Les Miserables,” Upper Room Theatre Ministry was able to invest in a flight company from California to make the dream of this theater and crew a reality.

Director Rob Tessier says that in order to perform “Peter Pan” they had to go all out.

“We are doubling our budget in order to bring authentic, breath-taking flying effects, renting amazing costumes from professional companies – including a crocodile with glowing eyes and the beloved dog Nana costume from a Utah Opera house – and building an incredible custom set,” said Tessier.

Since the ministry was founded in 2002, it has used the theater to inspire participants, volunteers and audiences through solid Christian values.

Father Lee R. Roos, pastor of All Saints Church, is appreciative of the program and how it reaches out not only to the actors and participants but also the community.

“I am grateful for the hard work of so many volunteers who make each summer’s performances such a special time for those who come. I know this year will be special for the young and the young-at-heart,” he said.

Performances run from July 14 through July 19 at 7:30 p.m., with two matinees on Saturday and Sunday at 1:30 p.m.

Anticipating all shows to be sold out as in previous years, the company has prepared for a possible eighth performance July 19 at 6:30 p.m.

The ministry will use the proceeds to support technical renovations to the performing arts center and teen missionary programs such as WorkCamp.

Find out more:

GetPeterPanTickets.com

facebook.com/upperroomtheatreministry

The All Saints Performing Arts Center is located at 9310 Stonewall Road, Manassas, Va. 20110.

Raynor can be reach at [email protected].

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