Hall for Cornwall are celebrating the magic of this year’s Christmas show, JM Barrie’s classic Peter Pan, by attempting a novel world record: inviting the oldest person in Cornwall to ‘fly’ on the Cornwall Playhouse stage.
As the cast head into flying rehearsals this week, the flying experience will celebrate the ageless appeal, warmth and magic of the original story.
To help celebrate that, they want to give one person an experience like never before – getting harnessed up to experience the theatre’s ‘flying’ equipment that will be used in the show.
They said: “If you've got an older family member, neighbour or friend who'd like to make history with us by taking to the air in our Peter Pan Flying Experience, then we want to hear from you!”
Theatre executive and show producer Julien Boast added: “Peter Pan celebrates the magical idea of never growing up. That idea is captivating to all of us, no matter how young or old.
“When we found out that the oldest trapeze artist in the world was only 84 years old, we thought Cornwall could go at least one better. With your help, and if we all believe, together we can make this record attempt come true!”
The lucky nominee will need to be available on Friday, August 4 from 11am to 12pm, and confident enough to fly on their own (full professional instruction and safety provided).
If you’re 80 years or over, or know someone who might be keen, get in touch by emailing marketing@hallforcornwall.org.uk, calling 01872 262466 or messaging the Hall for Cornwall directly via their Facebook page (facebook.com/hallforcornwall).
The callout follows the casting announcement for the Cornwall Playhouse production of Peter Pan, which opens on December 4.
Family favourite Edward Rowe will be taking on the role of Captain Hook, Falmouth University graduate Ollie McFarlane is leading as Peter Pan, and Cornish comedian Colin Leggo joins as Smee.
Hall for Cornwall will also welcome star of TV and theatre, Sara Markland, as a fairy godmother-style Tinkerbell. Sara is known for her roles in Casualty, Doctors, Down to Earth and Jonathan Creek.
Taking on the other roles are Dan Ball as Mr Darling, Kelise Gordon Harrison as Tiger Lily, Jade Lauren as a self-assured Wendy, Lucy Park as Mrs Darling, and Olivia Warren as Nana.
You can find out more about Peter Pan and buy tickets at https://hallforcornwall.co.uk/playhouse-tickets-shows/peter-pan/about-the-show
Audiences have until September 1 to take advantage of family pack discounts, with the opportunity to pay over four monthly instalments.
Julien Boast added: “We know this year will be really tight for many families and we’ve frozen prices on family packs and ensured a number of £15 tickets are available for all performances. We’re also offering instalment payment plans to customers.
“With these measures we’re making this Christmas treat as affordable as possible.”
“Peter Pan” is presented by arrangement with Great Ormond Street Hospital Children’s Charity and Concord Theatricals Ltd, on behalf of Samuel French Ltd.
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