The national tour of PETER PAN takes the stage at Robinson Center September 13-15. To welcome you to Neverland,
we sat down for a chat with Ray Zaragoza who plays Tiger Lily in the musical:
• What was your path to becoming a professional actor?
I grew up in a show business family in New York City, and my Dad played Chief Sitting Bull in Annie Get Your Gun on Broadway when I was in kindergarten. Pretty much since then, I always knew I wanted to be a performer. As a kid, I did musical theater and that eventually led me to pursuing a career as a singer-songwriter throughout my twenties. It was amazing to come full circle this year getting to play Tiger Lily in Peter Pan – since I haven’t done much acting since I was a kid!
• If you weren’t an actor, what profession would you pursue?
Well, I guess I wouldn’t consider myself an actor. I am more of a singer-songwriter revisiting acting for this project! But if I wasn’t a performer, I would probably just be behind the scenes as a writer.
• What is new about this production of PETER PAN?
Larissa Fasthorse brought Peter Pan to 2024. My favorite update is how the tribe is now indigenous people from all over the world who have come to Neverland to preserve their culture – making the tribe incredibly diverse! Tiger Lily is also now the empowered leader of the tribe, instead of the silent daughter of the chief.
• How have audiences reacted to this updated version of the classic story?
Audiences have loved it! It’s really amazing to see how much people of all ages have connected with the updates.
• Can you share a particularly memorable or touching moment you’ve experienced while performing in this show that stands out to you?
One day when I was leaving the Pantages, a gymnastics team of girls were screaming “Tiger Lily!” And telling me how much they loved my performance. It was so touching and reminded me that what we are doing is empowering the youth!
• What was the audition process like for this show?
When I first got the audition for this role, I was uncertain if I was right for the role since I haven’t done any acting in over a decade. And I had hardly done any dancing in about a decade! I really have just been a singer and writer for a long time. But then I decided to audition anyway because it sounded like it could be a lot of fun and an amazing opportunity. I taped my first audition in a hotel room while I was on tour with my music, and then had two callbacks in person in New York City. I remember I was out with my friend for lunch when I got the offer and it was super exciting.
• Dream role?
My dream role would be to be behind the table as a composer for my own musical!
• What item can’t you live without while on tour?
I can’t live without my yoga mat on tour!
• Favorite city you’ve played on tour?
Definitely The Pantages in LA! It was always my dream to play there.
• Favorite part about touring the country with PETER PAN?
My favorite part is definitely the community aspect and getting to travel the country with great friends. We’ve made so many memories together!
Presented by Celebrity Attractions, PETER PAN is part of the 2024-2025 Broadway Season at Robinson Center.
For more information, visit CelebrityAttractions.com.
CITY: Little Rock, Arkansas
VENUE: Robinson Center
SHOW DATE: September 13-15, 2024 (Friday at 7:30pm, Saturday at 2pm & 7:30pm, Sunday at 1pm & 6:30pm)