Second star to the right and straight on till Carmel

By DANIEL SHOCK
A Seat on the Aisle

Carmel Community Players’ Peter and the Starcatcher is a spirited and often hilarious take on the origin of J.M. Barrie’s beloved characters. Directed by Lori Raffel, this production leans heavily into humor and creativity, feeling like a mash-up of Godspell and The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged).

Told in a vaudevillian style and peppered with anachronistic jokes (some of which feel tailor-made for a Carmel audience), the play invites us to laugh, imagine, and connect with the story of how Peter Pan became “The Boy Who Would Not Grow Up.”

Adapted by Rick Elice from the novels by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson, the story delves into Peter’s origins, weaving a tale of adventure, friendship, and the magical substance “starstuff.” The show’s self-aware humor and inventive staging make it as much a celebration of theatre itself as it is a prequel to Peter Pan.

Mason Yeater as Peter. (Photo provided by Carmel Community Players)

The cast of 14 actors portrays over 100 characters with boundless energy and wit. Mason Yeater captures the journey of the Boy (eventually Peter), portraying both his vulnerability and growing confidence as he discovers and builds his identity. Hannah Janowicz as Molly, the brave and quick-thinking Starcatcher-in-training, has an eager self-assurance, anchoring the more fantastical elements of the story with sincerity. Together, Yeater and Janowicz create heartfelt moments amidst the chaos.

As Black Stache, Austin Uebelhor frequently steals the show with his eccentric antics, playing up the character’s future as Captain Hook with delightful over-the-top flair. His scenes with Samantha Kelly as the loyal Smee are entertaining, drawing laughs with their absurd exchanges. Adrian Blackwell as Grempkin brings a menacing edge to the orphan backstory, while Olivia Carrier and Quinn Yeater as Prentiss and Ted inject fresh energy and humor into the orphan trio.

The play’s use of a minimalistic “Story Theatre” approach works beautifully, mirroring the way children play and reinforcing the themes of growing up and the power of imagination. With ropes doubling as doorways, boxes transforming into pirate ships, and fabric becoming waves, the audience is encouraged to fill in the gaps with their own creative energy. This approach showcases theatre at its most imaginative and interactive. Raffel’s set design complements the script’s playful nature, keeping transitions quick and the action flowing. Lighting by Karissa Henschen highlights key moments, particularly the magical glow of the starstuff, while Elizabeth Ruddell’s costumes skillfully balance Victorian influences with pretend playfulness.

Raffel notes in her director’s message that this play is about “self-discovery, finding home, and connection.” These themes resonate through the hilarity and chaos, reminding us of the importance of building a “different sort of family.” The production also celebrates breaking tradition, with clever gender-blind casting that highlights the “Pan, or all-ness” theme central to the story.

If I have any criticism, it’s that the play takes a little time to get going. The first half of Act One had some timing issues, which could likely be attributed to opening night jitters. However, as the performance barreled ahead, it grew funnier and more engaging. Every scene featuring mermaids is a winner!

For those who enjoy fast-paced humor, imaginative storytelling, and a fresh take on familiar characters, Peter and the Starcatcher delivers a delightful evening of theatre. The balance of laugh-out-loud comedy and heartfelt moments makes it a great outing for families, theatre enthusiasts, or anyone who wants to believe in magic again.

The play runs through Nov. 24 at The Cat, 254 Veterans Way, Carmel. Performances are Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at carmelplayers.org.

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