A Magical Opening Night: "Peter and the Starcatcher" at the Capitol Theatre

 Peter and the Starcatcher.
Credit: Daniel Boud

The Capitol Theatre in Sydney was alive with excitement on the evening of February 2, 2025, as audiences gathered for the much-anticipated opening night of Peter and the Starcatcher. This imaginative prequel to Peter Pan brought adventure, humor, and wonder to the stage, captivating theatregoers of all ages.

A Comedy-Filled Adventure

Peter and the Starcatcher is a theatrical adaptation of Peter and the Starcatchers, a novel written by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson. Commissioned and originally produced by Disney Theatrical Group, the play offers a humorous and fast-paced look at the origins of Peter Pan, Captain Hook, and the magical world of Neverland. Written by Rick Elice, the play employs a minimalistic yet inventive storytelling approach that invites audiences to use their imagination.

A Glimpse into the Story

"Peter and the Starcatcher" unfolds in two acts, each rich with narrative and character development.

Act One: A High Seas Journey

The story begins with three orphaned boys aboard The Neverland, a decaying ship bound for Rundoon. Aboard another ship, The Wasp, the ambitious Molly Aster and her father, Lord Aster, carry a secret cargo—an enchanted trunk filled with "starstuff," a substance with magical properties. Through a mix-up, the trunk ends up on The Neverland, and when pirates led by the flamboyant Black Stache attack, chaos ensues. Amid the confusion, Molly befriends the orphan boys and helps them escape. The ship eventually wrecks on a mysterious island, setting the stage for the next chapter of the adventure.

Act Two: Discovering Neverland

As the characters navigate the island, the orphan boy—who later becomes Peter Pan—discovers his ability to fly, thanks to exposure to starstuff. Meanwhile, Black Stache, ever the scheming villain, loses his hand in an accident, marking his transformation into Captain Hook. The island’s magical creatures, including mermaids and a giant crocodile, add to the enchantment. In the end, Peter chooses to remain on the island, embracing his destiny as the boy who never grows up.

Bringing the Story to Life

Peter and the Starcatcher. Credit: Daniel Boud

The talented creative team behind Peter and the Starcatcher worked tirelessly to bring this enchanting prequel to life on stage, blending inventive storytelling with dynamic production elements. Through collaboration between visionary directors, choreographers, designers, and actors, the team transformed the whimsical world of Neverland into a theatrical experience that is both magical and heartfelt. From imaginative set designs to creative lighting and costumes, every detail was carefully crafted to transport audiences into a fantastical world of adventure, humor, and wonder. The result was a seamless fusion of imagination, craftsmanship, and heart, all coming together to captivate audiences from start to finish.

Rick Elice’s Theatrical Vision

Playwright Rick Elice crafted a script that balances humor and heart while remaining faithful to the spirit of the original novel. His dialogue is witty and fast-paced, with characters often breaking the fourth wall to engage the audience. The play’s use of minimal props and imaginative staging allows for an experience that feels fresh and engaging.

David Morton's Direction

Director David Morton approached the play with a focus on creativity and storytelling. Instead of relying on elaborate set pieces, he encouraged a performance style that leaned into movement, ensemble work, and quick scene transitions. This approach not only honored the play’s playful nature but also kept the energy levels high throughout the performance.

Liesel Zink’s Dynamic Choreography

Peter and the Starcatcher. Credit: Daniel Boud

Movement Director Liesel Zink played a crucial role in shaping the physical storytelling. The cast navigated the stage with fluid, expressive movements, transforming themselves into ships, waves, and fantastical creatures. The result was a seamless blend of acting and choreography that enhanced the story’s whimsical tone.

James Dobinson’s Musical Atmosphere

Although Peter and the Starcatcher is not a traditional musical, James Dobinson’s role as Musical Director was essential in creating the show’s atmosphere. Live musicians were positioned on stage, providing underscoring and sound effects that heightened dramatic and comedic moments. The inclusion of occasional songs added an extra layer of charm to the production.

Anna Cordingley’s Costume Design

Costume Designer Anna Cordingley crafted visually striking costumes that reflected each character’s personality and role in the story. The pirates wore exaggerated, ragged outfits that emphasized their outlandish nature, while the mermaids shimmered in inventive designs that blended human and aquatic elements. Her designs played a significant role in transporting audiences into the fantastical world of the play.

Ben Hughes’ Enchanting Lighting Design

Lighting Designer Ben Hughes used a combination of warm and cool tones to differentiate between the contrasting settings—whether the gloomy decks of The Neverland, the dazzling magic of starstuff, or the mysterious glow of the island. His lighting choices helped guide the audience’s emotions and emphasized key narrative moments.

Peter and the Starcatcher. Credit: Daniel Boud

The Magic of Puppetry: Dead Puppet Society

The production’s inventive use of puppetry, crafted by the Dead Puppet Society under the leadership of Creative Director David Morton and Executive Producer Nicholas Paine, was a highlight of the evening. From the towering crocodile to the delicate starstuff butterflies, the puppetry brought an extra layer of wonder to the show. Intricately designed ship models, a mischievous cat, and a soaring yellow bird added depth and charm, proving that theatre can create magic through artistry and imagination.

The Talented Cast of "Peter and the Starcatcher"

The theatrical magic of Peter and the Starcatcher is brought to life not only by its imaginative storytelling and breathtaking stagecraft but also by the extraordinary talent of its cast. This ensemble of skilled performers infuses the production with humor, energy, and heart, ensuring that each character leaves a lasting impression. From the three orphan boys to the seafarers and the supporting characters, every  performer plays a crucial role in shaping the adventure.

The Orphan Boys: A Dynamic Trio:

Peter, Ted & Prentiss. Credit: Daniel Boud

At the heart of the story is Peter, played by the talented Otis Dhanji. Peter’s journey from a nameless orphan to the legendary Peter Pan is one of discovery, courage, and self-acceptance. Dhanji’s performance captures the raw emotion of a boy who has never known love but learns to embrace his destiny with the help of his newfound friends. His ability to transition from vulnerable to heroic makes his portrayal both compelling and heartfelt.

Morgan Francis brings a delightful comedic energy to the role of Prentiss, the self-proclaimed leader of the orphan trio. His portrayal balances arrogance and insecurity, making Prentiss a relatable and endearing character. Francis’ impeccable timing and expressive delivery add levity to the production while keeping the character grounded.

Benjin Maza shines as Ted, the eternally hungry and lovable member of the group. Ted’s fascination with food provides plenty of humor throughout the play, and Maza’s natural comedic instincts make each moment land perfectly. His chemistry with Francis and Dhanji creates a believable camaraderie among the orphans, making their journey all the more engaging.

Molly Aster: The Courageous Starcatcher

Olivia Deeble takes on the role of Molly Aster, a precocious and determined young girl entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding the magical starstuff. Deeble brings intelligence, warmth, and strength to the role, making Molly a compelling character who is both inspiring and relatable. Her interactions with Peter showcase a genuine connection, adding an emotional depth to the story. As a character who challenges traditional gender roles, Molly is a standout figure, and Deeble does justice to her fearless spirit.

The Seafarers: Pirates and Adventurers

No Peter Pan origin story would be complete without a fearsome yet ridiculous villain, and Colin Lane delivers an unforgettable performance as Black Stache. Lane’s portrayal of the flamboyant, over-the-top pirate captain is a masterclass in comedic villainy. In my opinion, he was the standout performer in Peter and the Starcatcher. His ability to balance menace with absurdity makes him an audience favorite, ensuring that every scene he is in is filled with laughter and theatrical brilliance. His eventual transformation into Captain Hook is played with perfect timing and grandeur.

Peter Helliar as Smee. Credit: Daniel Boud

Alongside him is Peter Helliar as Smee, Black Stache’s ever-loyal and bumbling sidekick. Helliar’s portrayal of Smee is both endearing and hilarious, adding to the comedic chemistry between the two characters. His interactions with Lane create a dynamic and entertaining double act that amplifies the playful, chaotic energy of the story. Peter Helliar is an Australian comedian, actor, writer, and television personality, best known for his work on the popular TV show The Project. He has also starred in and created several television projects, such as the sitcom How to Stay Married, and has made appearances at various Australian comedy festivals. In addition to his television work, Helliar has contributed to radio, podcasts, and films, solidifying his place in the entertainment industry. His humor, paired with his charismatic on-screen presence, has made him a beloved figure in the Australian entertainment scene.  Peter and the Starcatcher. Credid: Daniel Boud

The Supporting Cast: A Cohesive Ensemble

The strength of Peter and the Starcatcher lies in its ensemble cast, each of whom plays multiple roles, seamlessly transitioning between characters to bring the world of the play to life. From sailors to island natives to mystical mermaids, every actor contributes to the vibrant storytelling that makes the production so enchanting.

Peter and the Starcatcher. Credit: Daniel Boud

The production features a talented supporting cast that breathes life into the play’s various whimsical and adventurous roles. With quick character changes and inventive storytelling, each performer enhances the show’s energy and immersive experience.

Lord Leonard Aster

Alison Whyte portrays Lord Leonard Aster, Molly’s father, with both gravitas and warmth, making him a guiding force in the story.His character’s connection to the secret society of Starcatchers adds an element of intrigue and high stakes to the adventure.

Mrs. Bumbrake and Alf

The comedic duo of Mrs. Bumbrake (Molly’s protective nanny, played by Lucy Goleby) and Alf (a rough but kind-hearted seafarer played by John Batchelor) provides some of the play’s most hilarious moments. Their unexpected romance and witty exchanges add a layer of charm to the story, making them audience favorites.

Fighting Prawn and The Mollusks

The island’s native leader, Fighting Prawn (Ryan Gonzalez), along with his tribe, presents a blend of humor and theatrical flair. Their interactions with the main characters add depth to the setting and provide some of the most visually engaging moments in the play.

Mermaids. Credit: Daniel Boud

The Mermaids

A highlight of the production is the transformation of the cast into mermaids for a delightfully absurd and comedic musical number. The actors’ exaggerated performances, combined with creative costuming and choreography, make this scene a standout moment of pure theatrical joy.

A Celebration of Theatrical Excellence

The cast of Peter and the Starcatcher is a testament to the power of ensemble storytelling. Each actor brings their unique talents to the production, creating a world that is both fantastical and deeply human. Their ability to switch seamlessly between characters, deliver rapid-fire dialogue, and engage the audience in moments of both hilarity and poignancy is a testament to their skill and dedication.

With a perfect blend of humor, heart, and high-energy performances, this talented cast ensures that Peter and the Starcatcher is a theatrical experience to remember. Their collective efforts bring this beloved prequel to life, making it a must-see production that delights audiences of all ages.

A Night to Remember

The opening night of Peter and the Starcatcher was a triumph, earning enthusiastic applause from the audience. With its blend of comedy, adventure, and heartfelt storytelling, the production successfully brought the magic of Peter Pan’s origins to life. Whether a longtime fan of the classic tale or a newcomer to Neverland, this play offered something for everyone—a journey of discovery, laughter, and the promise of eternal youth.

Peter and the Starcatcher is on now at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney until 9 February.  It moves to Brisbane for shows from 14 - 30 March. 

Web: https://peterandthestarcatcher.com.au/
Tickets: https://peterandthestarcatcher.com.au/tickets/