In mid-June, cast members from Briarcliff Middle School’s production of Disney’s “Peter Pan Jr.” presented a check for $869 to Karen Asch, the annual giving manager from the Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital Foundation at the Westchester Medical Center.
“We appreciate everything you’ve done,” said Ms. Asch. “This is our 10th-year anniversary and this donation will be very helpful.”
Cast members included Abby Brantman, Leila de Bevoise Barkan, Maggie Lynch, Jack McGranaghan and Helaina Ross. Also in attendance were the production’s director, Ian Driver, and musical director, Regina Leon, along with Assistant Superintendent Dr. Kusum Sinha, Board of Education President Jen Rosen, and Maria Fareri grants manager Nancy Burkley and BMS parent and Peter Pan Jr. publicity volunter Kristy Lynch.
In his will, “Peter Pan” original author and playwright J.M. Barrie donated his copyright to the Great Ormond Street Hospital to assist with the care of ailing children. According to Mr. Driver and the students, it was fitting that they honor Mr. Barrie’s name with a related gesture. Jack McGranaghan addressed the audience and explained their intentions, and students proceeded to collect donations from audience members during each of the three performances.
“We are incredibly proud of the cast and crew of this show, as well as the generosity of the audiences and our community,” said Ms. Lynch.
“They provided a wonderful community service,” said Dr. Sinha. “Students were able to draw a connection between the play and charity. It provided a great learning opportunity, and Mr. Driver did a wonderful job of connecting the two.”
Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital cares for the region’s most critically injured children.