Wimmera residents aged nine to 17 have been working hard to put together their take on the classic story of Peter Pan.

Director Larissa Riddell said since tickets went on sale last week, several  had already been sold in anticipation of opening night next month. 

She said the cast had been working hard for three hours a week since February to put the production together.

‘‘The three hours are jam-packed with acting, singing and dancing,’’ she said.

‘‘It’s great because we have a bunch of kids who are so excited and keen.

‘‘They’re having so much fun and are trying hard.’’

Miss Riddell said the stage crew was also about to start preparations.

She said stage crew members were also aged nine to 17.

‘‘It’s really important for kids to not just know what is going on on stage, but also what is going on behind the scenes,’’ she said.

‘‘They might want to do it as a profession.’’

Miss Riddell said adult mentors would coach the crew during the next few weeks.

‘‘The kids actually will be running the show after being mentored,’’ she said.

‘‘We want to give them the best experience possible and kids learn best by practically exploring things.’’

Peter Pan Junior will be performed on June 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 and 28 at the Wesley Performing Arts Centre, Horsham.

Miss Riddell said tickets were $20 for adults and $17 for concession.

She said tickets were available from www.wesleypac.com or from Helloworld Horsham.

Stephanie Azzopardi