Xavier Petta - Mr Darling
Xavier Petta is a Year 10 student at Corpus Christi College, who is currently playing the lead role of Mr. Darling in the school’s latest theatrical production. With his impressive experience in performing, including his role as Sonny in the 2022 production of Grease. Xavier’s natural ability to entertain and joke around is evident both on and off stage, and he shares several personality traits with his character, Mr. Darling. Like Mr. Darling, Xavier is loud, humorous, and always eager to make people smile.
Throughout the play, Mr. Darling’s character undergoes a significant transformation as he grapples with his guilt over the loss of his children. His change in attitude is evident, as he becomes more cheerful, sentimental, and easy-going. His journey is a reminder that even the most practical and money-focused individuals can experience personal growth and rediscover the joys of childhood.
For Xavier, being part of the school’s theatre production has been an incredible experience, and he encourages other students to consider auditioning for future shows. Even if one isn’t interested in performing or lacks experience, participating in the production provides an opportunity to learn new skills and gain confidence.
As for the audience, Xavier urges them to come and witness the hard work and dedication that has gone into the production. With a new spin on an old classic and the first junior and senior school show from Corpus Christi College, it’s bound to be a show to remember.
Hannah Armstrong - Mrs Darling
Hannah Armstrong is a talented Year 12 student at Corpus Christi College, who is thrilled to be playing the lead role of Mrs Darling in the school’s upcoming production of Peter Pan. Although this is her first production with Corpus Christi, she has been passionate about acting since she was nine years old and has performed in a variety of musicals and plays, both in school and theatre companies.
Hannah is excited to be portraying Mrs Darling, a kind and understanding wife and mother who cares deeply about her family’s well-being. She sees many similarities between herself and her character, as she is often considered the “mum friend” among her peers and enjoys taking care of children. She is also shadowing the directors of the production, Mr Dove and Ms Kelly, and working with younger children in the cast, which aligns with Mrs Darling’s nurturing nature.
Hannah is impressed by the level of talent among her fellow cast members and is excited to see the show come together. The modern adaptation of the classic story by Mr Dove is both funny and emotional, and the cast has worked incredibly hard to bring it to life.
Overall, Hannah’s passion for acting shines through in her dedication to the role of Mrs Darling and her enthusiasm for the production as a whole. She is excited to share the stage with her talented castmates and bring the beloved story of Peter Pan to life for audiences to enjoy.
Harrison Herbert - Nanna and Mullins
Harrison Herbert is a Year 6 student at Corpus Christi College, and he is thrilled to be making his debut in the college’s upcoming production. Harrison will be playing the roles of Nanna and Mullins.
He describes Nanna as playful, friendly, and loyal, with hair just like his. He identifies with Mullins as well, noting that he is brave and would fight for what he believes is right, as well as protect his friends.
Nanna is a Newfoundland nurse who cares for Wendy, John, and Michael, hired by the Darlings to look after their children. Harrison notes that Nanna deeply cares about the children’s welfare and health, even when she is treated poorly by George Darling. Nanna is in charge of the children’s health and gives them medicine, presumably every night.
Harrison describes the production as “majestical,” with a great deal of effort put into creating a realistic set and props.
He’s excited to watch the audience’s reaction and to live out his dream of becoming an actor. This production of Peter Pan promises to be different from any other, with the possibility of audience involvement.
Corpus Christi College students have worked hard to prepare for this production, and Harrison encourages everyone to come and support their talents.