An edgier "Peter Pan" comes to Union starting Wednesday

Publication Date

J.M. Barrie’s “Peter Pan” has grown up under the direction of Patricia Culbert, Union’s senior artist-in-residence.

Culbert will direct her adapted, edgier version of the traditional children's tale. Set in modern times, the story illustrates the Darling children’s adventures with Peter Pan and his Lost Boys.

The play will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 25 through Saturday, May 28 and 2 p.m. Sunday, May 29 in the Yulman Theater.

Culbert’s “Peter Pan” views Barrie’s tale an “urban dreamscape.” Peter Pan is a troubled youth, uncertain of his role in the world, but still the leader of his gang, the Lost Boys. The boys hang out at an abandoned playground where they play and encounter Wendy Darling and her brothers.

“I wanted to find a way to refresh the story,” said Culbert. “To tell it anew, in tougher times and with savvy ‘kids’ who play as a means of escape or empowerment.”

The production brings together the collaboration of many students, faculty and staff; with writing and directing by Culbert; set design by Charles Steckler; set construction by Steven Michalek; dance choreography by Marcus Rogers and fight choreography by William Finlay and Jim de Seve.

Some of the student actors include: Ryan Semerad ’13 as Peter Pan; Rachel Magin ‘14 as Tinkerbell; Carla Duvall ’14 as Wendy; David Masterson ’14 as Mr. Darling and Hook; Annora Brennan ’11 as Mrs. Darling and Smee; Chris Paine ’12 as John and Joe Kiernan ’13 as Michael.

Tickets are $10 for general admission and $7 with a Union ID and for alumni and senior citizens. Tickets can be purchased at the Box Office which is open from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. Monday through Friday or by calling (518) 388-6545.