Granite Bay High students plan unique Peter Pan performance

For fans of the classic story of Peter Pan, students at Granite Bay High School are planning a performance with a unique flair. Opening night is Thursday, Oct. 23. The production features nearly 30 students on stage and many more working behind the scenes to help make the show come to life. According to show organizers, they are also working with local youth foster organizations to open seats for children and families who may be experiencing live theatre for the first time — part of their mission to make the arts accessible for all. One highlight of the show is senior Haleya Hoang, who is stepping into the role of Captain Hook. Traditionally played as a male character, Hoang is bringing her own interpretation to the part — she has shared that she loves the challenge of Hook's big personality: one moment fierce and intimidating, the next unexpectedly funny. Production organizers liken Hoang's performance to "Hook with a heart." Hoang is already well-known at Granite Bay for such things as being the founder and president of 350 Granite Bay, a student-led environmental group connected with 350 Sacramento, and she also serves as vice chair for the Sierra Club Motherlode Youth Committee. She recently earned Best Actor at the 2025 Lenaea High School Theater Festival for her role in Machinal, Granite Bay Theatre's student-directed piece that won gold at the festival. The show is directed by Zachary Magan, who has been leading the theatre program for GBHS for several years. Magan has staged a range of productions for the school, from The Play That Goes Wrong to Urinetown, Chicago, Shrek and Mamma Mia and the award-winning Machinal. Magan said he tries to blend tradition with fresh perspectives. "Our goal is always to make theatre accessible, meaningful and fun," said Magan. "With Peter Pan, we're reimagining a classic story while giving our students the chance to connect with audiences in exciting new ways." The production runs from Oct. 23-Nov. 1. Tickets can be found at https://www.granitebaytheatre.com/