CHILD Players ACT is one of Canberra’s more distinctive  production companies. 

Led by an expert in this kind of theatre, BJ Anyos,  the company focuses on a more in-depth interpretation of characters than is usual with young people.

In one winter show I saw, “The Jungle Book,” the animals came to life with extraordinary vigour and accuracy.

From today, Child Players will be presenting its  fourth January musical in 2013 following in the footsteps of  “The Pied Piper” in 2012, “Pinocchio – the Musical” in 2011, and “Alice in Wonderland” in 2010.

“Peter Pan – the Musical” comes at the end of  two-week program that  has been giving  the participants the opportunity to learn a show and perform on stage after only six days of rehearsal, 10am to 4pm daily.

The set, costumes and props have been  made in advance and Anyos says it has been proven many times that children can learn a show, and perform it enthusiastically, all in only two weeks.

It’s a new musical adaptation of JM Barrie’s classic story written by Anyos  and musical director Georgia Pike,  assisted by a group of very talented teen helpers two of whom, Brooke Hendry (assistant musical director and Mrs Darling) and Nyasha Nyakuengama (assistant director and Captain Hook) will also join the cast of 59 children aged 8-16 on stage.

“Peter Pan – the Musical” at Theatre 3, Ellery Cres, Acton, 11am and 2pm January 16-19.

All tickets are only $15 and bookings can be made on 6257 1950 from 10-4pm Monday-Friday or through www.canberrarep.org.au 24/7 or at the door.