Several Anne Arundel County residents are on the stage in Howard County these days — either on two feet, or four — in the production of "Peter Pan" at Toby's Dinner Theatre of Columbia.
Co-directors Toby Orenstein and Mark Minnick are bringing their own vision to this musical based on James M. Barrie's 1904 story. Toby's in-the-round space comes alive with action, including an Indian invasion, the arrival of a pirate ship portending adventure, and the lost boys' lively antics.
Most amazing in Toby's intimate venue is Minnick's carefully engineered flight choreography, filled with freedom and excitement delivered with grace.
Some brilliant casting is evident in the choice of David Bosley-Reynolds — an Annapolis native and current resident — to play the dual roles of Mr. Darling and Captain Hook.
Bosley-Reynolds invests his Mr. Darling with a Downton Abbey assurance, complete with an aristocratic English accent and subtle paternal warmth that shines through his parental reserve.
In sharp contrast, his portrayal of Captain Hook is broadly cartoonish and deliciously droll, re-defining of the villainous pirate leader role that is more foppish than fearsome and nonstop hilarious.
Bosley-Reynolds' always impressive baritone is well displayed in several delightful numbers, amusingly amorous in Hook's "Oh, Mysterious Lady" duet with Peter.
Arundel resident and star Anne Arundel Community College alumnus Andre Hinds is outstanding in the show, dancing in "Hook's Tango" and "Hook's Tarantella," and adding delightful comic touches to his dance performances.
"Peter Pan" is Hinds' fifth Toby's performance, and he also takes on master of ceremonies duties, proving adept at greeting audiences with his warm, easy charm.
Fellow AACC dance alumnus Anwar Thomas of Millersville also brightens this production with his dancing and singing as Jukes, and joins Hinds in "Hook's Tango."
Another Arundel resident, RJ Pavel, also steals scenes — in a howling good role as Nana, the Darling children's watchful Newfoundland dog. The role requires a lively Pavel to crawl around the floor and bark whenever intruders may threaten the children's welfare. Pavel also plays Dibly, one of the "Lost Boys."
In the starring role, MaryKate Brouillet's flying arrival at the Darling family home is perhaps the most memorable star entrance at Toby's in recent memory. Brouillet was unforgettable in "On My Own" as Eponine in Toby's "Les Miserables," and now has a role she seems destined to play.
Brouillet projects Peter's defining bravado in declaring his refusal to grow up and assume adult responsibilities, cherishing his freedom to pursue adventure. Her Broadway-caliber voice fills the theater with spunky self-assurance in "I Gotta Crow" and ecstatic excitement in "I'm Flying," while investing "Neverland" with palpable longing.
Hook's crew of pirates is a stellar ensemble including Helen Hayes nominee and winner David James as Hook's comic sidekick Smee; another Helen Hayes nominee Darren McDonnell as Cecco, and consummate song and dance man Jeffrey Shankle, also a Helen Hayes nominee, playing Starkey.
Two featured debuting Toby's players are Katie Tyler as Wendy Darling, a talented actress, dancer and singer who soars gracefully when flying along with Peter and her younger siblings. Those siblings are well played by Gavin Willard and Anderson Franco, who alternate in the role of Michael, and by Jace Franco and Brian Rusk cast in role of John.
Making a memorable Toby's debut is Amanda Leigh Corbett as Tiger Lily, displaying strong dance and vocal skills. Also of note is Toby's orchestra, adding greatly to the show.
"Peter Pan" continues through June 12 at Toby's Dinner Theatre of Columbia, 5900 Symphony Woods Road, Call 410-730-8311 or 301-596-6161 for reservations.