Backyard Theater: 200 Attend ‘Peter Pan’ Performance at home in Artesia

 HMG-CN Community Corner

(ARTESIA) Last Friday evening over 200, people gathered under the stars at a home in Artesia to enjoy a wonderfully entertaining version of 3-2-1 Action! Kids’ Musical Theatre’s performance of “Peter Pan.”

The stars literally twinkled over Peter Pan and Tinkerbell as they flitted across the London (Artesia) skyline. Add pirates, Indians, lost boys, Hook and Wendy and who could ask for a perfect evening of summer entertainment.

Director, Athena Diaz, creator of this unique community kid’s theatre noted “The concept of 3-2-1 Action! is simple; all kids participate in some form or fashion whether they have been performing with us for the past 8 years or have just joined our theatre this summer.

This is a family affair: my sister Anisa is co-owner and choreographer, my dad helps with lights and sound, my mom is in charge of costumes and fiancé just about everything else.

Artesia City Councilmember Sally Flowers is involved by coordinating parent volunteers in our backyard theatre. We are firm believer of our theatre motto, “Where everyone is a star!” and we encourage our actors to take chances and work as a team.

During the two months of rehearsals, our kids sing and dance their hearts out, and come show time everyone is ready for their moment in the spotlight. Starting in 2007, we have grown from a tiny outdoor theatre of 12 kids to a cast of 57 actor’s ages three through 18.  Yet with size come challenges. You learn to be very creative.”   Judging by the reaction on Friday night, they succeeded.

Captain Hook was “off the hook” developing his character over the 4 days performance with swagger and song. Despite numerous challenges including ankle, knee and hip injuries from several cast members the magic never lessened. Peter Pan and the entire cast reminded us of the delights of never growing up.

Next stop, Broadway!