I think you have to look at the story as a whole. The Mollusk people ended up the stronger people in the end. They actually mimicked the Europeans to degree. Have your students dive into the language of the scenes to see what is actually said.
In the production I did, I did a mini presentation on satire and the history of Peter Pan and where the inspiration for PATS came from. Understanding that the satire lives on the stage and doesn't go out of the space into everyday life is important, because then the language ends up losing its meaning and can end up as hurtful. Also, our Mollusks were dressed as chefs, with cooking utensils as their weapons.
I did have some students who refused to the the show even before auditions because of what they saw. They didn't even want to sit down and have a conversation. But if you have a focused concept for the show, I think it can be done with the impact it is designed to have.
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Raymond Palasz
Auditorium Director/Director of Theatre
Munster High School
IN
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Original Message:
Sent: 08-29-2022 10:53
From: Joseph Gels
Subject: Peter and the Starcatcher - Mollusks
Had a positive experience. I guess I'm confused by your parentheses statement about not mimicking an Italian person's accent when doing the English lines.
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Joseph Gels
Theatre Teacher
Boston Latin School
Original Message:
Sent: 08-28-2022 17:45
From: Lauren Darby
Subject: Peter and the Starcatcher - Mollusks
I'm curious to know how this went for you, and how you addressed the elements that are still relying on stereotypes (even if doing so in a satirical way), ie the chanting, the way they speak English (not mimicking an Italian speaker's accent or grammar), the human sacrifice...while of course the show is trying to call out these stereotypes, it can also be reinforcing. Did your students ultimately feel positively about the conversation and find ways to make the satire clear in their performances?
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Lauren Darby
Teacher
Iowa City High School
Original Message:
Sent: 11-07-2021 10:24
From: Jordan Fox
Subject: Peter and the Starcatcher - Mollusks
I am directing Peter and the Starcatcher right now and curious if anyone here had additional conversations with your actors and community about the Mollusks and how they are represented. Especially when thinking about the way native people were originally represented in Peter Pan. Hoping to have an open dialogue with my ensemble as we embark on Peter and the Starcatcher. Looking forward to hearing any input!--
Jordan Fox (she/her/hers) | Area Advisor: Theatre, Performing Arts Teacher (Theatre)
Windward School | 11350 Palms Blvd | Los Angeles, CA 90066
Direct Line (424) 289-1131
For Appointments: jfox-2.youcanbook.me
jfox@windwardschool.org
A dynamic, engaging education. A nurturing, inclusive community.
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