Lower School Reimagines Neverland

The Lower School production of Peter Pan delighted audiences in the Cortellucci Family Theatre on May 12 and 13, bringing this timeless adventure to life through the energy of a talented cast of young performers and a skilled crew. Directed by Lower School drama faculty member Jen Johnson, who also adapted the script based on the J.M. Barrie classic, the production honoured the spirit of the original story while introducing inventive new elements to the world of Neverland.

“I have long awaited the moment Peter Pan entered the public domain, for the chance to adapt this timeless tale for a large, energetic group of boys,” says Johnson, adding that J.M. Barrie’s world is one of infinite imagination, and it was a thrill to tailor this adventure to showcase the cast’s unique talents.

This year marked the debut of the Coyote Company of Players, a new club that launched in September to extend and reinforce the Lower School play production. “We worked on acting skills and ensemble building before the play title was even announced,” says Johnson. “It resulted in a committed and invested group of young actors.” The dedicated club members were joined by the enthusiastic Grade 4 ensemble, and together they transformed the stage into a vibrant Neverland.

“After the production, boys shared thoughtful reflections on their journey and the dedication it took to make the show a success,” says Johnson. “They spoke about the power of teamwork, understanding how every role contributed to the final story; the confidence they’d developed through the process of performing; the sense of community as they made new friends across different grades; and the pride they shared in what they accomplished together.”