Amanda Pevey

Elmore Autauga News

Play Directed By Michael Proper & Corrie Simpler

Tonight, the curtain will rise on the Millbrook Community Players’ production of Peter Pan and Wendy – A Musical.

There is something truly wonderful when it comes to community theatre. Everyone and anyone can audition for parts, regardless of their experience. If they are chosen for a part, large or small, it gives them the chance to shine on stage. This particular production is even more special, because donations are being taken for two very special people from our communities that are battling serious health issues. See more on that below.

As for this production, from the Millbrook Theatre website: “This panto-style re-imagining of J.M. Barrie’s classic book focuses on Wendy’s transition from a child to a responsible young lady — with plenty of adventure in between! When Wendy refuses to leave the nursery and sleep downstairs, her mother gives her a mysterious box containing Peter Pan’s shadow. Unable to resist, Wendy opens it, Peter arrives, and they’re off to Neverland! But even there, Wendy must learn what it means to grow up. Full of enchanting music and beloved characters, this fast-paced adaptation of Barrie’s Peter and Wendy is a treat for children of any age.” ~ Playscripts

This play is an engaging, and interactive experience throughout the entire show. The full cast is made up of 36 members. Auditions were held in April of this year and practiced started soon after. There are a total of 10 shows.

The EAN was able to attend a recent pre-show event, so please check out the gallery of photos below.

Michael Proper, Director, said, “Peter Pan and Wendy the Musical, follows the traditional story line with a few twists. When planning the set and costume design, I knew that we wanted the appearance to be more authentic and recognizable. I am very proud of the entire cast, they have worked so hard to get us to opening week.

“Believe me when I say that one person cannot do this alone. Corrie Simpler has been right by my side in a co-director role, jumping in wherever she is needed. Shannon Hodum and Steve Phillips are my wonderful stage managers, and they keep everything moving behind the scenes. Even my wife and daughter have stepped in, and they are running the tech side of things.

“Community theatre offers a place for families to be creative together, so much so that we have more than 12 families that are involved with 2 or more family members involved in the show. The greatest reward Corrie and I get is watching these amazing young actors grow confidence on stage, and push themselves not only to be better actors on the stage, but to also take away a few life lessons while participating.”

All show dates are open to the public, so grab your tickets while they last. The entire cast, and the workers behind the scenes, have put their hearts and untold hours into this production. Come out and watch them shine!

July 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 @ 7:00 pm

July 19, 20, 26, 27 @ 2:00 pm

Tickets can be purchased online at: https://www.millbrooktheater.com/2025-season.html or at the door.

Wendy’s Dollhouse is set up in the lobby when you walk inside the theatre, in honor of Libby Barrett and Evie Williams.

Officials said this play is dedicated to castmate and dear sweet friend Libby. Libby Barrett was initially cast as a Mermaid, and her dad was initially cast as Captain Hook.

Libby Barrett has Aplastic Anemia. It’s a serious and life-threatening condition that occurs when the body fails to produce enough blood cells.

One of the few paths to a cure?

A bone marrow transplant which has been scheduled for July 23, with a check in date of July 13 to start that process. Libby was diagnosed with Telomere Biology Disorder (TBD) with Dyskeratosis Congenita (DKC) due to a TERT gene mutation. Having them together is extremely rare, only about 1 in a million children have both.

To learn more, you can follow Libby’s journey on Facebook at:

Battling with Grace: Libby’s Story

Evie Williams is three-months-old and little sister to Allyson, one of Millbrook Players’ talented former cast members.

On June 2, 2025, at 10 weeks old, Miss Evelyn Grace Williams became one of the fewer than 100 infants in the U.S. to be diagnosed with infant leukemia and is currently undergoing chemo Children’s Hospital in Birmingham.

To learn more you can follow Evie’s journey on Facebook at :

Prayers for Evie: Little Warrior Big Fight

How can you help Libby & Evie?

Donate $5 or more by cash or Venmo to enter for a chance to win Wendy’s Bear from tonight’s performance along with a picture opportunity with Wendy.

Winner will be announced at the end of the show.

For every $5 spent over the initial $5 you will receive an additional ticket. 100% of your donation goes to the Libby and Evie’s treatment.

Must show completed Venmo transaction to be given a ticket.

Up Next at Millbrook Theatre:

The Immigrant: September 11-21

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: December 11-21

Visit their website at: www.millbrooktheater.com

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