All Hands on Deck | Peter and the Starcatcher

The cast and crew of Peter and the Starcatcher took the stage at the George Theater during Second Baptist School’s Fall Drama, offering the audience a glimpse into the origin story of Peter Pan. From stem to stern, this production captivated the audience with its dynamic blend of whimsy, comedy and heartfelt storytelling.

Dynamic Ensemble Experience
Director Cindy Blades applauded the student’s ability to stretch beyond their comfort zones in acting, noting that “this production allowed the whole company to remain onstage for the entire show, actively creating scenes with ropes, planks, ladders and various props. There was never a dull moment for the ensemble. This group of actors now knows what it's like to truly support each other on stage.” The constant stage presence kept the energy high, and students and audience alike were fully immersed in the storytelling, making for a powerful and engaging performance. 

Leadership Behind the Scenes
The complexity of Peter and the Starcatcher extended beyond the acting. The technical aspects of the show, from sound to lighting, added another layer of challenge. According to Mrs. Blades,  "There were over 120 sound and lighting cues in this script, so for sound tech Chatham Carlson ‘25 and stage manager Avery Glauser ‘27, this show was very challenging." 

Claire Westmoreland adds, “Students truly delved into the intensity of this show. Student director and choreographer Olivia Shoemaker ‘25 created the choreography, held rehearsals and taught the staging to the entire cast. In contrast, student music director Jaqueline Lunsford ‘25 called her own rehearsals with the cast members to work vocally on songs in the show.” The student direction was a new addition to this year’s fall drama and “the students really stepped up to the plate and were extremely helpful to Cindy and me,” notes Westmoreland.

The Cast and Crew Perspective
For many students, Peter and the Starcatcher was not just about the final performance but the relationships and memories made throughout rehearsals. Vivian Wise ‘26 encapsulates the point of view of the cast and crew members perfectly, “although it was so hard, seeing the set, lights and costumes all come together was incredible. Theater is my family, and I wouldn’t trade the opportunities Mrs. Blades and Mrs. Westmoreland gave us for anything.” 

A Show that Resonated
“Because Peter and the Starcatcher had so many identifiable themes, like greed, friendship and jealousy, the students took the audience to laughter, anger, and tears within the telling of this story.” Mrs. Blades recalled hearing an Arts Patron remark that they were brought to tears when Peter and Molly said their goodbyes. “It’s always our desire to make the audience feel invested in the story,” Blades said.

Looking Ahead
As the curtain closed on Peter and the Starcatcher, the cast and crew were left with a sense of accomplishment and pride. Their hard work continues as they look towards competing in the TAPPS One Act Play Competition. Theater at Second Baptist School continues to be a space where students can grow both artistically and personally, learning to support each other and create something beautiful together.

Fall Drama Photos