A Frome local has been the star of a classic pantomime tale after being head-hunted to perform as Peter Pan at The Grange Theatre in Hartford, Northwich.
For the last few months, Solomon Greer-Collins, 20, has been starring as Peter Pan using circus skills that he learnt at Circomedia, a world-renowned centre based in Bristol, for contemporary circus and physical theatre training.
“The producer of the theatre near Northwich was looking for an aerialist, who could also stage act, to play Peter Pan. He contacted Circomedia and another producer of a circus in Bristol, and they both recommended me,” explained Solomon, who started going to silk classes, a combination of dance and gymnastics, just after his 13th birthday.
“I was sent the script, went to an audition and got the part,” he explained. “I have taken to the character of Peter Pan. I have found my own way of playing him. He is oblivious to the world and has all these challenges and the rivalry of Tinker Bell and Wendy. He is a fun character to play. He is very energetic and child-like and I feel connected to my inner child during this role.”
Solomon’s mum, Morag, said it has been an ‘in at the deep end’ experience for him, particularly as his only previous experience of dancing was a brief time at the Tri.Art Dance Academy where he learned ballet.
“Acting is a new thing for me but we did physical theatre at Circomedia, so I picked it up quickly,” explained Solomon. “My skills from Circomedia are coming in well. Physically, I am glad I have my training at Circomedia, we do roughly two, two-hour long shows a day and I am doing multiple aerial moves.”
Solomon said that when he was given the role, he moved up to Hartford but plans to return to Frome when the season has finished. His last performance as Peter Pan is due to be held on 4th January.
