PETER PAN Comes To Spreckels Performing Arts Center

More than a hundred years after he first appeared on stage, Peter Pan still refuses to mature. In the musical Peter Pan, opening at Spreckels Performing Arts Center on May 4, the eternal boy makes the message loud and clear, singing "I Won't Grow Up" (and crowing "I Gotta Crow").

Thank goodness, for this show inspires all of us to keep our inner child alive. Based on the 1904 play by J.M. Barrie, the musical has been lifting spirits of young and old since its debut in 1954. When Peter sprinkles fairy dust on Wendy and her brothers, the magic works on the audience, too. As Peter, Tinker Bell and the children soar into the London night headed for Neverland, we go with them, whatever our age.

The role of Peter, made famous by such artists as Mary Martin, Sandy Duncan and Cathy Rigby, is written for a female artist. For Spreckels, the brash scamp will be played by Sarah Wintermeyer, last seen in the lead role in the Spreckels production of Little Women, The Musical. Peter's arch enemy, Captain Hook, will be played by the North Bay favorite, David Yen.

Peter Pan features lyrics by Carolyn Leigh, with a few additions by Betty Comden and Adolph Green; and music by Morris (Moose) Charlap, with additional tunes by Jule Styne. The Spreckels production is directed by Spreckels Artistic Director Sheri Lee Miller, with music direction by Tim Eisman and choreography by Michella Snider.

Box Office: (707) 588-3400. Hours: Wed. - Sat., noon to 5 p.m., and one hour before show.

Online: www.spreckelsonline.com