Grand Lake’s Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre season takes flight with Peter Pan

GRAND LAKE — Everyone has dreamed of flying effortlessly through the sky, to take off on a whim and soar through the breeze. Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre’s 2013 season debut of Peter Pan makes that dream a reality.

J.M. Barrie’s immortal story of a flying boy who wouldn’t grow up comes to life on the RMRT stage, with technical feats never achieved on the Grand Lake stage. “Ever since we opened the new theatre complex in 2011, we’ve been preparing for this opportunity,” said Artistic Associate and Director Jeff Duke, “and this summer, everything has come together to make this possible– only with this phenomenal company of actors, musicians, and technicians could this production take flight.”

Producing Peter Pan has proven to be no small task. Much of the work on the show began months in advance in a collaboration with ZFX, a flying technology company based in Louisville, Ky. To prepare for that theatrical magic, the Theatre made changes onstage and offstage to accommodate the demands of a system that will carry actors across the space in effortless fashion. Production Manager and Set Designer Kent Barrett leads the talented production team, and was excited to create the breathtaking world of Neverland.

“The technical aspect of this production is setting a new bar here at the Rep,” explained Mr. Barrett. “We have always enjoyed giving our patrons something new each season, and I think the special effects in this production will enchant audiences of all ages.”

Park alum and Grand Lake favorite Kurt Hellerich takes the stage again this summer, after his delightful turn in last season’s hit, The Drowsy Chaperone. “To return to Grand Lake and play an iconic role like this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Hellerich, “it’s such an endearing musical, just a thrilling and magical journey. I think audiences are in for quite an experience.”

Join Peter and his band of Lost Boys as they soar through the air with the greatest of ease and battle the villainous Captain Hook all summer long in this timeless tale of childhood freedom and joy. Peter Pan opens Friday, June 14 at 8 p.m., and runs through August 23 at Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre, 800 Grand Ave., Grand Lake.