The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County and Broadway Across America are proud to continue the 2023-2024 Broadway in Miami series with the South Florida premiere of Peter Pan for a limited engagement from May 7-12.
The adventure begins when Peter Pan and his mischievous sidekick, Tinker Bell, visit the bedroom of the Darling children late one night. With a sprinkle of fairy dust and a few happy thoughts, the children are taken on a magical journey they will never forget. This extraordinary musical full of excitement and adventure features iconic and timeless songs including “I’m Flying,” “I Gotta Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up” and “Neverland.” Peter Pan embraces the child in us all, so go on a journey from the second star to the right and straight on ‘til morning. Your entire family will be Hooked!
“Peter Pan is one of the great treasures of the American musical theatre,” said Lonny Price, director. “The show nurtures and inspires the imagination of its audience and reminds us to keep alive the child within us all.”
“I am thrilled to be part of bringing Peter Pan to life for a new generation,” said Larissa FastHorse, playwright. “If you loved this musical before, you would still see the show that enchanted you, while discovering a Peter Pan that everyone can enjoy, without harm, for many years to come.”
Seventeen-year-old Nolan Almeida will play the iconic role of “Peter Pan.” An Orange County, California native, Nolan was most recently seen as ‘Crutchie’ in Newsies at 5-Star Theatricals and was featured in “Christmas on Repeat” on Hulu. Joining him will be Cody Garcia as “Captain Hook” who most recently starred as “Willy Wonka” in the national tour of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and as “Buddy” in Elf; Emerson College graduate Hawa Kamara as “Wendy” and acclaimed recording artist Raye Zaragoza as “Tiger Lily.”
The full cast is completed by Shefali Deshpande as “Mrs. Darling,” Kurt Perry as “Smee,” William Foon and Micah Turner Lee alternate as “John,” Reed Epley and Camden Kwok alternate as “Michael.” The ensemble includes Charles Antenen, Jonah Barricklo, Christina Hélène Braa, Jordan T. DeLeon, Brandon Gille, Ryan Perry Marks, Michael Marrero, Kenny Ramos, Hannah Schmidt, Kiara Williams. The swings are Tony Collins, Bailey Frankenberg, Leo Gallegos and Cheyenne Omani.
It was a pleasure to sit down with Cody Garcia (Captain Hook) for this exclusive Hotspots interview.
At what age did you begin performing and how did it happen?
I feel like I started performing at 8ish, because I was taking a Harry Potter Theater Camp in San Antonio Texas.
What was your first professional gig and how much did you get paid?
When I was in high school, I did a production of “The Music Man” in community theater. I don’t remember how much I got paid, but it wasn’t very much.
When did you know performing would be your career?
Honestly kind of early on as I have been into acting from when I was a kid. I thought I was going to do movies as my family is very into movies. I then remember taking theater camp classes and knowing this is what I wanted to do.
Other than this show, what has been your favorite role so far?
I really loved playing Flynn Rider in the Tangled Musical in the Disney Magic.
What’s your fantasy role (a role you haven’t played but would die to play)?
I really want to play Raul or the Phantom in “Phantom of the Opera.” But fantasy wise Jack Skellington in the Nightmare before Christmas.
Is it intimidating or is there extra pressure playing such an iconic character as Captain Hook?
No, I feel like I have already had practice playing iconic characters. Actually, I have played Captain Hook before on Disney Cruise Lines. I love playing him and being able to sing a baritone role. I love putting my spin on iconic characters.
Is it hard being on the road all the time?
It’s exhausting. I love traveling and seeing all these new places, but you have to keep yourself healthy. You must find a happy medium of self-care and living your life and also being able to do the show 8 times a week.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Colorful, passionate, and non-binary.
What do you do for fun?
I just got a pedicure with our head of costume department which I love…I love pedicures. I also enjoy going to museums and seeing other shows. I don’t get to see shows very often as we are constantly on the move, but I take any chance I can.
What should our readers expect from this touring company of, “Peter Pan”?
This show is very magical and is suitable for people of all ages. Its also suitable for people who love Peter Pan and for people who don’t. The way they have updated it from the original to now is great and beneficial. The set and lighting are also spectacular. It’s a great musical and I am proud to be a part of it.
To find out more about Cody, go to Instagram.com/popgoesthecutureshock or Codyrgarcia.com.
Tickets to Peter Pan are $25-$140 and may be purchased now online at arshtcenter.org or at the Adrienne Arsht Center box office by calling (305) 949-6722.
