Two Norfolk residents, John DeShazo and Ann DeCerbo, are co-directing Northwestern Regional 7 High School’s student thespians in “Peter and the Starcatcher,” the prequel to “Peter Pan.” It will be staged Friday, November 20, and Saturday, November 21, at 7:00 p.m., and Sunday, November 22, at 2:00 p.m.
Each year, the high school and middle school stage a fall play and a spring musical. “Peter and the Starcatcher” combines elements of both genres with music threaded through the storyline.
The theater program, whose casts and crew have earned several Halos—Connecticut’s high school theater award—is co-directed by DeCerbo and DeShazo in collaboration with costumer Sue Zygmont of Colebrook, musical director Dylan Pedersen of New Hartford and choreographer Kristin Mudge, also of Norfolk.
The award-winning play tells the tale of an orphaned boy with no name who becomes the boy who won’t grow up. “It is comedic but takes a somewhat darker look at Peter’s life as an orphan and the journey from youth to adulthood,” said DeShazo.
While the play has a few sets, the company creates their imaginary world using ropes, simple props and their own bodies and voices to become ships, doors, waves and even the jungle.
Students are involved in every part of the production. Student crews built the sets, created and manage the props, and run the lighting and sound, with Norfolk’s Harry Bennett serving as stage manager.
The show will be staged at Northwestern Regional 7 High School, 100 Battistoni Drive, Winsted.
Tickets are available at the door or online.