By Peter Alagos/Business Reporter
Held for the first time in Qatar, spectators both young and old were dazzled by the lights and sounds, as well as the spectacular acrobatics of “Peter Pan the Never Ending Story,” which runs until October 9 at the Qatar National Convention Centre (QNCC).
Tour manager Wouter Schotel told Gulf Times that the cast and crew performed in Dubai last year before coming to Qatar.
“Prior coming to Doha, we were having rehearsals in Hasselt in Belgium for one month. We were invited to come and play here in Doha, and we are very happy to be able to share our production with the communities of Qatar,” Schotel said.
Khamal, who attended the show with his wife and two sons, said: “I was amazed by the props, costumes, and the stage design, as well as the cast’s production numbers and their repertoire. My kids loved it when Nana the dog and the giant crocodile appeared during the show.”
Peter Pan the Never Ending Story is described as a mix of theatre, illusion, circus, block-buster movie, and rock spectacular rolled into one with dancers, stuntmen, acrobats, magicians, actors from 10 countries.
Asked about preparations for the physical requirements of the show, particularly the acrobatics, Schotel said the cast had rehearsed for one month before coming to Qatar “to make sure they could be at their best.”
“Before every show, the dancers and acrobats have one hour to warm up; that includes yoga and some cardio to get loose. They also go over all their moves and techniques to ensure that they hit every beat perfectly to give the audience the best experience,” the tour manager added.
Company manager Lisa Petrie noted that Hamza Naceri, one of the acrobats, is the youngest member of the cast at 21 years old, while Richard Spijkers, who plays Captain Hook, is 46.
Asked how QNCC compares to other venues abroad in terms of facilities, production manager David Wright said: “QNCC, as a venue, did prove to have some difficulties in terms of logistics.
“However, the staff were very accommodating to help us achieve everything we needed to get the show up and running. For lighting and sound, we brought all our own equipment with us in 21 different shipping containers.”
He added: “QNCC stands out from other venues in their willingness to help us overcome any difficulties we face and their hospitality lounges are great for our staff and crew to relax pre- and post-show.
“QNCC was very meticulous in their planning, which made our lives easier logistically that we knew where and when everything could arrive and be set up.”
Production number featuring some of Captain Hook’s pirates.
