VYT to Close 25th Anniversary Season with PETER PAN, 6/13-29

Valley Youth Theatre (VYT) closes out its 25th Anniversary Season with the original Broadway musical version of Peter Pan at the Herberger Theatre Center from June 13 through 29.

"This is only the third time we've produced Peter Pan," said Producing Artistic Director Bobb Cooper, who also directs this production. "The last time we did it was in 2009 and I'm proud to say that our choreographer from five years ago is back!" Cooper spoke fondly of Katie Casey who also played Pan in VYT's production in 2000. Resident Musical Director Mark Fearey will once again lead the orchestra.

The cast of 36 hails from Chandler, El Mirage, Mesa, Paradise Valley, Phoenix, Scottsdale, Surprise and includes Hannah Blaile (Peter Pan), Connor Baker (Captain Hook/Mr. Darling), Caroline Wells (Wendy Darling), Sam Primack (Smee) and Payton Bioletto (Tiger Lily). Pan will be Blaile's thirteenth VYT role. New to the company are Bryson Holl (Michael Darling), Mitra Matin (Lost Boy), Karlie O'Hearn (Indian), Clay Rollon (Indian) and Oriana Valcamp (Jane).

Remaining cast members include Cameron Benton, Brandon Brown, Tatum Dial, Carly McClain, Brandon Reyes (Indians); Rebecca Caswell (Wendy Grown Up); William Deihl, Alberto Flores, Adam Hays, Anand Khalsa, Harrison Redmond (Pirates); Thea Eigo (Neverbird); Olivia Fearey, Makenna Jacobs, Vincent Jacovo, Alexandra Kirby, Ethan Shanker, Charlie Siegel, Justin Vaught, Owen Watson, Andy Wissink (Lost Boys); Ally Lansdowne (Lisa); Brennan Metcalfe (Crocodile); Alex Partida (Nana/Indian); Jessica Sinodis (Mrs. Darling) and Hayden Skaggs (John Darling).

Peter Pan is based on the play by Sir James M. Barrie. It features lyrics by Carolyn Leigh, music by Moose Charlap, plus additional lyrics from Betty Comden and Adolph Green and additional music by Jule Styne.

Special flying effects and training will be provided by ZFX Inc., the same company that flew Cathy Rigby as Pan the 1998 Broadway revival.

Tickets to Peter Pan start at $20 and are available to order online now at HerbergerTheater.org or by calling the Herberger box office at 602.252.8497.