Senior acting students at Summerland Secondary School will bring to life the story behind Peter Pan.

The students will stage Peter and the Starcatcher at Centre Stage Theatre on Dec. 12 and 13, beginning at 7 p.m.

The play, which was first performed in 2009, is adapted from the 2004 novel, Peter and the Starcatchers, by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson.

The story serves as the prequel to J.M. Barrie鈥檚 1904 novel, Peter and Wendy.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a fun, fun pirate story,鈥� said Heather Ayris, drama teacher at Summerland Secondary School.

The story provides the background to characters in the well-loved Peter Pan story. These include details about Peter Pan, Mrs. Darling, Tinker Bell and Captain Hook.

While the high school has performed numerous musicals, Peter and the Starcatcher focuses on the actors and acting. There are four songs in the play, but it is not considered a musical.

鈥淚t鈥檚 a very difficult production, and this group is really good,鈥� Ayris said.

A total of 30 Acting 11/12 students are in the cast, with five technicians. 

Ayris said past students from the high school鈥檚 theatre program have gone on to work in the arts. 

Some recent graduates are now studying theatre or working in film or theatre across Canada, on stage or in related roles.

鈥淲e鈥檝e got quite a few who are in the movie industry,鈥� she said.

Admission to the two shows is by donation.

In the spring, students at the high school will be on stage once again as the school stages The Addams Family, a musical comedy.