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July 5, 2012

Crossroads Rep stages a world premiere musical

Gail Hayes Special to the Tribune-Star

TERRE HAUTE — Audience members will have the opportunity Friday to be the first to see a new musical, “Return of Neverland,” at Indiana State University’s Crossroads Repertory Theatre.

This sequel to “Peter Pan” was written by Indiana State alumnus Andrew Park, with music by Scott Lamps. The story is brought to life under the stage direction of Arthur Feinsod, with music direction by Mark Carlisle.

“This is a big deal for Terre Haute to stage the world premiere,” Park commented. “Terre Haute will always be recalled as the first place this musical was ever produced.”

Park believes this musical will have a life beyond Terre Haute, with possibilities to stage it in Chicago and Madison, Wis., already in the works.

In this tale, Wendy Darling (Carolyn Conover) is grown up and married to one of the former Lost Boys (Jason Bowen) she helped save from Neverland during their childhood. They have moved to New England to avoid the lures of Neverland, but dreams haunt their teenage daughter, Jane (Clara Butts).

While her parents attempt to save her by sending her away with Mr. Leatherbee (Lew Hackleman) to boarding school, the scheming Captain Hook (Bowen) foils their plans and she winds up in Neverland.

Park’s lyrics and Lamps’ music bring the story to life. “The style of songs is pretty traditional Broadway style,” Lamps explained. “There is an important distinction between the songs of the real world and the world of imagination and magic.”

In one song in Act I, “The Greatest Villain,” Hook gives the audience a glimpse into his propensity for thievery and being evil. During Act II, the mermaid (Conover) teaches Hook how to win the girl during the number, “To Win a Kiss.”

“Captain Hook’s major objective is to get even with Peter Pan,” Park said. He makes a deal with the mermaid so he can force Peter Pan (Jonathan Wachala) to finally lose his youth. Sword fights, locked cages and mistaken identities all play a role in telling the story.

“Jason Bowen is known in Chicago for his comedic roles,” Park said, “and the best villains are bumblers.” The writers observed the actors during reading workshops and an early rehearsal.

“We were rolling in the aisles at Bowen’s portrayal of Hook,” Lamps added. Brandon Wentz’s portrayal of the lovable Smee, Hook’s sidekick, also draws laughs.

In many versions of “Peter Pan,” one actor plays both the father and Captain Hook. The same is true in this musical, with an added twist. Conover plays both the mother and the dark, mystical, magical mermaid in Neverland. “It was cool to have Wendy take on this other role,” Park said.

In this “Peter Pan” tale, the presence of Neverland is always represented on stage by three fairies (Samantha Hayes, Will Rupert and Joe Wagner). “The fairies are there to help make the magical parts happen,” Park explained. Their presence is functional, as they are set changers, but they are also mood-setting as they remind the audience that the world of imagination is always present.

Park had the idea for this “Peter Pan” sequel because of the universal appeal of people wanting to hold onto the magic of childhood.

“Being youthful is a state of mind,” Park added. “This musical reminds us that we all still want a connection to our imaginative self.”

Park and Lamps had the first draft ready for the Indiana State director and actors to begin workshops in late December. They have continued to rework songs and scenes since that time.

“This musical is truly a delight for the entire family,” Park said. “Adults will appreciate the plot complexities and broad humor.” Meanwhile, children will love the silliness of Smee, Peter Pan’s resistance to liking girls, and the entertaining music and dancing.

Additional performances of “Return of Neverland” are Saturday and Sunday and July 12, 21 and 25. All begin at 7:30 p.m. except the Sunday matinee at 4 p.m. After that matinee, the public is invited to a free Sunday Talk in the theater.

Tickets for this professional production are $15 each for general admission and $8 each for children. Indiana State University students can obtain one free ticket per show with student ID, while ISU faculty and staff receive a reduced ticket price.

Tickets can be reserved online at www.crossroadsrep.com or purchased at the ticket office located inside the theater, 540 N. Seventh St. For additional ticket information, call (812) 237-3333.

Check it out

What: “Return of Neverland”                      

When: Friday through Sunday and July 12, 21, 25

Evening shows: 7:30

Sunday matinee: 4 p.m.

Tickets: $15 general admission; $8 children; $12 Indiana State faculty and staff; ISU students free with student ID

Call: (812) 237-3333

Visit: www.crossroadsrep.com

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