MTSU Presents ‘Peter Pan’ to Adoring Fans

By Constance Allen

MURFREESBORO, Tenn— Middle Tennessee State University theater students took the stage for an original production of “Peter Pan” at 7 p.m. on Nov. 5 at the Tucker Theater, drawing smiles and tears from children of all ages.

MTSU theater students presented the musical based on the play by playwright Sir J.M. Barrie. Originally directed and choreographed by Jerome Robbins, the musical was adapted for students, who performed and produced. The play consisted of two acts, with a 10-minute intermission.

"’Peter Pan’ pushed my students to think like real actors,” said Dr. Scott Boyd, theater professor at MTSU. “The play helped them to explore their inner creativity so that they could add their own flair to each character. This play has been done for centuries, and I’m very proud that my students could add to the success."

“Peter Pan” has many different stories. MTSU theater students took on the scenario of Peter Pan flying into Wendy Darling’s room and convincing Wendy and her siblings to come to Neverland with him. Jealous, the fairy Tinker Bell tries to sabotage them, but she is found out and temporarily banished for her efforts.

Directors of the Theater program at MTSU push the phrase "Creativity over Simplicity." MTSU has been recognized for having the most prestigious dance program in Tennessee.

 The cast member who played the notorious Tinker Bell, Tori Peterson, expressed how serious the directors are.

“I am not a dancer,” she said. “In this play, I was pushed and pushed to be the very best, although my position was in the back of the crowd. In the dance numbers, they focused on every move I made as if I was in the very front of the stage."   

Other main cast members in the play includes Wendy Darling played by Hayley Orozco, Mrs. Darling played by Hannah Ewing, Mr. Darling/Captain Hook played by Daniel Meeks, and Peter Pan played by Parker Chase.

Tucker Theater at MTSU will be hosting an upcoming play called “Joy of the Season” (Dec.9 - Jan.21). Tickets will be available online starting Dec. 1 2016. Individuals who enjoyed “Peter Pan” will definitely enjoy this next production.

For ticket and other information, visit http://mtsu.edu/tuckertheatre/index.php.

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