Cardona, Gragg shine in Peter and the Starcatcher

            Every good story has its origins, and the tale of Peter Pan had quite the beginning with Indian Hills Community College’s performance of “Peter and The Starcatcher.” Better yet, several of the actors in the play have their origins back in Keokuk County with Bianca Cardona of Keota and Samuel Gragg of What Cheer, taking the next step in their theatrical careers.

            Gragg, a 2017 graduate of Tri-County, takes on the role of Alf, an old servant of the seas under the treacherous Captain Slank and a character that will crack a smile (or several) on any audience’s face.

“Alf I feel is a comic relief because he has some funny moments, but he starts off as a serious character,” Gragg said. “When he meets Mrs. Bumbrake, a nanny of the main character, he grows less serious and fun as the play goes along.”

          The modern twist of the classic allowed Gragg to develop his new character as an actor, practicing with her fellow cast on Monday, Wednesday and Sunday nights, along with Friday mornings. Making their home in St. John Auditorium, the cast balanced their time between school and practice to bring a performance that will have you laughing in your seats.

         “What I enjoy about performing is I get to make people laugh,” Gragg said, “I just like entertaining people. I’ve enjoyed seeing this play all come together from the first time we read through it to the last practice before showtime.”

Please view the December 6 edition of The News-Review for the full story.