Studio West’s “Peter Pan”

Originally published on social media on April 14th, 2024

I don’t know what was more healing for my spirit — the feeling of going to a performance again or actually watching the performance itself. Either way, attending Studio West’s “Peter Pan” gave me a sense of normalcy and whimsy that I needed.

Seriously, I mean it. I love the feeling of getting dressed up and having pretty hair and makeup. I love walking around before a performance, and perhaps buying a souvenir that directly supports the performers (this time it was a t-shirt). I love meeting random strangers or seeing familiar faces. Ooo and I even like the random occasion when someone innocently flirts with me…it’s rare, but sometimes happens! Going to performances makes me feel young and alive, and it awakens my love for the arts and allows me to escape reality into the land of make believe for a while. My heart is full of gratitude.

Peter Pan is such a lovely story, and seeing it in ballet form enhanced the story’s magic. I appreciate the fact that the company vested away from the racist and harmful cultural stereotypes common to this story’s past, and embraced more fairies and fish instead. Tiger Lily was a queen of the fairies, and I enjoyed that! There was so much talent amongst these dancers, and I was in awe of their bravery as they (quite literally) flew in the air! Seeing Peter Pan fly was pure magic, and the dancer who played him was incredibly talented!

There were a couple costume and choreography choices made that felt a little too mature for young dancers, and was a tad inappropriate. That can be common in young dance companies, but there were just a couple of moments that were very close to being uncomfortable and concerning. It’s hard to describe these moments, but thankfully there were such a small number of them that it didn’t take away the enchanting and childlike wonder of the ballet. Perhaps I am too sensitive myself, and really those moments are in the eye of the beholder.

There was such strong creative energy and camaraderie in the performance, and everyone had a chance to shine. I loved how this company did the bows and rounds of applause — they even included the stage hands!

Thank you Studio West for a beautiful performance!