SPECIAL TO THE TIMES/NEWS

Engaging the foremost theater flying company on the planet, The Hi-Liners are mounting an intense effort to enchant audiences with the Burien-based organization's ambitious production of fantasy adventure "Peter Pan."

A cast of 50 youngsters from Seattle and South King County under the direction of Hi-Liners resident artistic dirctor Kathleen Edwards will perform this timeless tale of the boy who would not grow up , opening Friday, Sept. 6.

"We wanted to celebrate the tradition of The Hi-Liners by taking on a classic like 'Peter Pan,' yet add an element never attempted before in the Highline Performing Arts Center-we wanted to fly!" said Edwards.

The Hi-liners hired Flying By Foy because it is the most respected flying company in the world.

"This is the same company that flew Mary Martin's 'Peter Pan,' in the 1950s, and they 'fly' people all over the world in major productions, touring companies and things like the opening ceremonies of the Olympics." said Edwards.

Flying director Johnny Pickett of Flying by Foy was brought to Burien to teach Hi-Liner staff like Dan Wolcott the skills it takes to "fly" the title character and the Darling children. The patented flying equipment requires traininng and focus to convincingly fly the actors so the magic of the story comes alive.

The 6-foot 8-inch-tall man who prefers to be called "Johnny" smiles as he talks about "flying" Cher in Vegas the night before. He has also directed such varied shows as Comedy Central's Flava Flav Roast, Brittney Spears and the Backstreet Boys. But by far, he said, he enjoys working on the "Peter Pan" shows the most. Pickett has trained or managed seven productions of "Peter Pan" this year alone.

Another treat for audiences of the beloved story is Lynne Randall in the lead role of Peter Pan. She's an 11-year veteran of Seattle theater and has a voice and a devilish Peter Pan mannerism that has to be seen to be believed.

"We have pulled out all the stops for this show," said Edwards. "We are building sets, and the kids are working harder than ever with our choreographer, Kristin Culp, and musical director, R.J. Tancioco. "

Hi-Liner President Gerry Gilbert, who performed with the organization from 1968 to 1973, is equally enthusiastic about the show.

"We have put together a fantastic show and hope that our many loyal patrons and those new to our productions enjoy this great theater opportunity right here in south King County!" Gilbert said.

Edwards emphasized that the Hi-Liners is about more than putting on a show.

"We want to see these kids soar, not only in 'Peter Pan' but in life!"

This Broadway-style musical runs consecutive weekends from Sept. 6 to Sept. 21 at the Highline Performing Arts Center, 401 S. 152nd St., Burien. For information and ticket purchases, go to www.hi-liners.org or call 206-617-2152. Tickets are also available at the door with cash or check only.