Behind the Scenes with Director Bess Moynihan: A Q&A on THE LOST BOYS FAMILY REUNION

In The Lost Boys Family Reunion, the Lost Boys of Neverland are all grown up—and they’re throwing a backyard BBQ that’s anything but ordinary. This original play, written by Courtney Bailey in collaboration with artists at Missouri Eastern Correctional Center (MECC), explores what it means to grow up, what we leave behind, and what we carry with us.

We sat down with director Bess Moynihan to talk about her approach to this imaginative and heartfelt production, what it's been like working with the ensemble at MECC, and what she hopes audiences will take away from this reimagined reunion with some of literature’s most beloved misfits.

Bess and cast member participate in a talkback with the audience after a performance of Gatsby of a Thousand Faces at Missouri Eastern Correctional Center in 2023.

What drew you to The Lost Boys Family Reunion as a director, and what excites you most about this story?

The original idea began with the exploration into what it means to grow up. The themes in the play of community, comradery, family and friendship are what I love most about the show. I’m excited for our audience to “play” along with the artists and to create a shared imaginative spirit.

How would you describe the tone or world of this play? What has been your approach to bringing that to life on stage?

The tone of the show is very playful but with thoughtful undertones surrounding the difficulties we all face, the struggles that shape who we ultimately become… who we grow up to be. I wanted to create a world that allows the actors to drop into those child-like revelries of “play” while still creating a poignant story that speaks to everyone.

What has it been like working with the artists at Missouri Eastern Correctional Center on this production?

This group of artists have been a dream to work with—funny, imaginative and collaborative! They’re very committed to making this show something special and I am extremely proud of (and grateful to) them. Most of the funny bits we’ve added have been their ideas. It’s truly wonderful to walk into a room with artists who aren’t afraid to make choices, share ideas and be silly.

Are there any moments in the play that really stand out to you — whether because they’re moving, funny, or surprising?

There are some wild moments, especially when we are introduced to the pirates. But there is a moment towards the end of the play where we incorporate a live performance of a song, and that has become one of my favorite moments – everyone is onstage and there is a grand sense of community and belonging, which I hope resonates with our audiences as well.

What do you hope audiences will take away from this reunion with the Lost Boys?

I hope our audience leaves with a deeper understanding of the human experience. That we are all capable of overcoming adversity, and that friendship is the fiber of human connection. (I also hope they leave with bellies sore from laughter!)

The Lost Boys Family Reunion premieres Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Missouri Eastern Correctional Center with performances at 1:15 PM and 6:15 PM.

RSVP by Tuesday, June 3 to be part of this imaginative and moving reunion.

RSVP Today!