Archer girls perform ‘Peter and the Starcatcher,’ embrace idea of community

By Gracie Marx, Staff Writer|March 21, 2018

Photo credit: Nelly Rouzroch

Sophie Evans-Katz ’18 and Olivia Richards ’19 perform in “Peter and the Starcatcher.” The play took place on Mar. 10 and 11 at the Miles Memorial Playhouse.

Pirates, mermaids and sailors were just a few of the characters that filled the stage as Archer girls performed their production of “Peter and Starcatcher.”

On Mar. 10 and 11 at the Miles Memorial Playhouse in Santa Monica, upper school students participated in the production of “Peter and the Starcatcher,” which serves as a prequel to “Peter and Wendy.”

This is the first theatre production performed outside of Archer following Archer Forward construction.

The prequel tells the story of an orphan named Peter and his adventurous friend, Molly. 

According to Jayla Brown ‘18, who played Peter, the play “is a universal story that everyone can relate to. It’s about friendship, commitment, love, sticking together, overcoming your own insecurities and what it really means to be a leader.” 

Upper School Play Director Tracy Poverstein discussed the process behind choosing “Peter and the Starcatcher.” 

“I was looking for a comical play that had a lot of characters but that also had heart,” she said. “I liked the message about leadership and following the journey, not just of Peter Pan, but also the girl’s experience.” 

Noa Diamond ‘18, who portrayed Ted the Orphan, highlighted emotions she felt as she completed her final Archer show. 

“It was really sad to know that this was our last upper school play. I’ve been in seven Archer productions and worked on the crew of four productions, so it’s crazy to think that it’s all over,” Diamond said. “There were a lot of tears before we went on stage for the last time, but I am so happy to have been able to be a part of it.“

Director of Choreography Reed Farley said that the play’s significance goes far beyond the stage.

“The play is an important part of Archer’s culture,” he said. “It’s an opportunity for our performing artists to make an impact on the [larger] community.”

Diamond also noted that the play helps Archer girls discover who they are as individuals. 

“[The play] brings people out of their shells and gives them a voice,” Diamond said. “It helps people [find] their passions and continue doing what they love.”