Creekside Middle School sixth-grader Ethan Gold’s performing career has reached new heights in Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre’s current production of the Sir James Barrie classic, “Peter Pan.”
Making his debut at Beef & Boards in its 2015 Family Show, Ethan has appeared in several productions at Booth Tarkington Civic Theatre, including “Willy Wonka” and “The Wizard of Oz,” and several others through Jr. Civic and his school.
And his newest role finds him flying to Neverland as John Darling, Wendy’s younger brother who soars with her and Peter Pan to a magical place filled with fairies, pirates and Lost Boys who won’t grow up.
“I love many things about the show, but what beats all the others is the flying,” Ethan said. “Getting to hook up on strings and fly is just an astounding experience. Everyone dreams to fly, but now it seems you can!”
Although only 12 years old, the young thespian has gleaned wisdom from his experience so far on the stage.
“I like … getting the chance to study to become a character,” Ethan said. “I believe after being so many different characters you become a wiser person and are able to expand your horizons.”
But there’s also a “rush you get when you walk on the stage to begin the show,” he said.
Of course, performing is not without its challenges, too. “Ask any actor and they will agree,” Ethan said, “the hardest part about being in a show is tech week – getting used to the lights, costumes, microphones, etc. is a long, difficult process.”
Regardless of this necessary element of the process, Ethan says his future will likely be on the stage.
“Becoming a professional actor is definitely at the top of my list,” he said. “Also, I’m considering becoming an English professor or an architect.”
When he’s not on stage, Ethan likes to read, play soccer, do yoga, bake and play with his dog, Teddy.
Peter Pan, the high-flying Tony Award-winning musical featuring the iconic songs “I’m Flying, “I’ve Gotta Crow,” “Never Never Land” and “I Won’t Grow Up,” is on stage for 58 performances through July 3 in the intimate space of Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre. Tickets range from $40 to $65 and include Chef Odell Ward’s family-friendly dinner buffet, prepared in-house for each performance, and select beverages. Parking is always free. Because “Peter Pan” is Beef & Boards’ 2015 Family Show, there is a $10 discount off the regular ticket price for children ages 3-15 for all performances.
For reservations, call the Beef & Boards Dinner Theatre Box Office at 872-9664.
