“Second star to the right and straight on ’til morning!” exclaimed J.M. Barrie, author of Peter Pan (first published in 1904 as a “fairy play” about an ageless boy who refuses to grow up).
Bravo Creative Arts Center, the local non-profit performing arts education organization that brings performance opportunities and more to kids presents “Peter Pan” this weekend. Taking place in the Franklin Special School District’s (FSSD) Performing Arts Center, the adventure-filled show includes beloved scenes and songs. Favorite tunes include “I Won’t Grow Up,” “I Gotta Crow” and “Never Never Land,” and who can beat a crocodile hungry for a pirate captain?
Since 1006, Bravo has been producing shows for kids and providing invaluable artistic education. A typical show cast for Bravo includes kids from 40 different schools in Middle Tennessee. To that end, auditions are hotly contested.
Being a part of a show is an experience like no other and it draws outgoing and introverted thespians alike. There’s nothing like self-expression, but sometimes it takes a little (or a lot) of encouragement to get there. Lissa McHugh, longtime director for Bravo enjoys bringing out kids’ special gifts.
“It’s all about self-confidence,” McHugh told Nashville Parent. “We have auditioned hundreds of kids and have seen this many times. If you have a shy child that is keeping a talent hidden, put him in a creative outlet that’s nurturing; a place that encourages a child to believe in himself. Then watch that child increase in confidence and go from being afraid to utter a single line to singing a solo in front of hundreds of people,” she says.
“Peter Pan” by Bravo This Weekend
This weekend’s production of “Peter Pan” includes kids confident enough to fly high in the number, “I’m Flying” with the help of special effects group ZFX. Local kids Elliot Barr (John), Winson Rosenbaum (Michael) and Mia Blaise Campbell (Wendy) tackle the roles of the Darling children who are visited by the sprightly Tinkerbell on the hunt for Peter’s shadow — and the magic begins.
Kids of all ages will enjoy seeing the new 2024 Bravo production and moms and dads curious about performing opportunities for their growing kids will appreciate learning what Bravo’s all about.
“Peter Pan” is at FSSD Performing Arts Center located at 1030 Excellence Way, Franklin. Shows are Saturday, Sept. 28 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 29 at 2 p.m. Tickets ($20) are available at the door or here.
