BWW Reviews: Pioneer Theatre Company's PETER AND THE STARCATCHER is Filled with Wonder

Pioneer Theatre Company's production of the Tony-winning hit Broadway play PETER AND THE STARCATCHER takes audiences on a touching, magical journey filled with rich drama, witty humor, and all the wonder of live stagecraft. It is hands-down one of the best pieces of theatre to be produced in Utah this year.

PETER AND THE STARCATCHER (by Rick Elice with music by Wayne Barker) is based on the novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson. The PETER PAN prequel follows the paths of two ships, each carrying a trunk that may or may not contain mystical, powerful "starstuff." An orphan named Boy and a girl named Molly must protect it against all odds, even in the face of pirates, island natives, and mermaids.

The unexpected shining "starstuff" of the production is Justine Salata as Molly. The emotive, likeable character she has created combines with her captivating stage presence to make something truly special.

Liam Forde as Boy is the definition of restraint in a role that could have been milked for over-the-top sentiment. Instead, he makes us care for a scared, angry boy who is trying to find his place in the world.

Leo Ash Evens also more than holds his own as the delightfully devious pirate captain Black Stache.

There is no weak link in the extremely strong ensemble. Despite the highly theatrical concept of the piece, every actor plays his or her role in a grounded, realistic manner that evokes real emotion and is tightly woven into the fiber of the story's sprawling tapestry.

Helmed by off-Broadway director Jenn Thompson, with choreography by Broadway's Patricia Wilcox (MOTOWN, A NIGHT WITH JANIS JOPLIN), all the elements of the production meld together into one pleasing, cohesive whole. This includes the subdued but energized lighting by Broadway designer Michael Gilliam (BONNIE & CLYDE, BIG RIVER), as well as the stellar contributions by Pioneer Theatre Company resident designers George Maxwell (set), Carol Wells-Day (costumes), and Amanda French (hair and makeup).

If you are looking for a break from typical holiday fare, PETER AND THE STARCATCHER is the choice for you. And if you're not, it's still more than worth a detour from your traditional festivities.

PETER AND THE STARCATCHER plays through December 20, 2014. For tickets, call the box office at 801-581-6961 or visit www.pioneertheatre.org.

Photo Credit: L-R Liam Forde (Boy), Leo Ash Evens (Black Stache), and Justine Salata (Molly). Photo by Alexander Weisman.

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