Australian comedian and TV personality Pete Helliar is set to take on a new challenge as he joins the cast of the 5-time Tony Award-winning production, “Peter and the Starcatcher.” Making its Australian premiere in October 2024 at the Canberra Theatre Centre, the play embarks on a national tour shortly after.
“Peter and the Starcatcher” offers an imaginative backstory to the beloved characters of Peter Pan, detailing the narratives that precede the classic tale. Audiences will be transported to a time before Neverland, exploring the origins of characters such as Captain Hook, and witnessing the narrative transformations of Molly, Peter’s precursor, from whom Wendy would later descend.
In his theatrical role, Helliar will portray Smee. He is widely recognised for his contributions to television on shows like “The Project” and “Have You Been Paying Attention?” His upcoming appearances include roles on “Taskmaster” and “The Amazing Race” on Network TEN.
The script for “Peter and the Starcatcher” comes from the acclaimed playwright Rick Elice, known for his work on productions like “Jersey Boys” and “The Addams Family.” Music for the play is composed by Wayne Barker.
An accomplished team assembles for this Australian adaptation, directed by David Morton of Dead Puppet Society. The creative ensemble extends with James Dobinson overseeing musical direction and additional music. Liesel Zink takes charge of movement, while lighting, costume, and sound are managed by Ben Hughes, Anna Cordingley, and Matthew Erskine, respectively.
Supporting Helliar is a talented cast, including Otis Dhanji, who assumes the role of Boy/Peter. He is joined by Colin Lane playing Black Stache and Olivia Deeble as Molly. Other cast members include Alison Whyte, Paul Capsis, Ryan Gonzalez, Hugh Parker, and Morgan Francis. Together, they explore the mystical precursors to the established tales of Peter Pan.
The narrative weaves a captivating prelude filled with adventurous tales and mythical creatures. This production marks a significant partnership involving international and local production companies, highlighting a collaboration between Dead Puppet Society, Glass Half Full Productions, JONES Theatrical Group, and co-producer Damien Hewitt.
Presented with the endorsement of Disney Theatrical Group and Music Theatre International (Australasia), “Peter and the Starcatcher” promises a compelling blend of live music and dynamic performances, featuring a cast of 100 unique characters. The production also benefits from the support of the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland.
The play is set to tour multiple Australian cities following its premiere in Canberra, including Melbourne at the Arts Centre Melbourne, Adelaide at the Festival Centre, Sydney’s Capitol Theatre, and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in Brisbane.
For those interested in the arts and theatre, “Peter and the Starcatcher” offers a unique opportunity to explore the less-known beginnings of the characters from the classic Peter Pan story, reimagined through a contemporary Australian lens.
Tickets are available now for what promises to be an engaging and memorable theatrical experience.
Canberra – Canberra Theatre Centre
From 15 October 2024
Melbourne – Arts Centre Melbourne
From 8 November 2024
Adelaide – Adelaide Festival Centre
From 9 January 2025
Sydney – Capitol Theatre
From 31 January 2025
Brisbane – Queensland Performing Arts Centre
From 14 March 2025
Peter and the Starcatcher
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