Capsule Reviews

Peter Pan Yes, they fly. No, they don't want to grow up. Rockwood Community Education's Spotlight Productions features 50 area kids in the familiar musical based on J.M. Barrie's play. From the smallest flower to the balletic mermaids (who knew fish could toe dance?), they're energetic and well-rehearsed -- kudos to director Joy Powell and choreographer Diana Sucher. Gerry Love is a delightfully wicked Captain Hook, leading his pirate crew in hilarious dance antics, while Taylor Louderman is a sweet-voiced Wendy who understandably enchants the Lost Boys. The dialogue in the first act is slow-going, but nobody comes for that -- it's the flying children that make this show. The real drama is watching a parent whose child is in the air: The mixture of pride, terror and jealousy speaks the truth about what it really means to be an adult. Through July 17 at Marquette High School, 2351 Clarkson Road, Chesterfield. Tickets are $16; $14 for children twelve and under ($2 discount for advance purchase). Call 636-207-2541. (Deanna Jent)