Editor's Note: This story has been updated to correct actor roles and names.

Southeast Missouri State University's Theatre and Dance Department chair Dr. Philip Nacy confirmed Thursday that three students were forced to leave the River Campus' production of Peter Pan due to drug and alcohol-related arrests.

Emily Stricklin, cast to play the character Peter Pan, Danny Kellett, cast to play Wendy's brother John, and John Pletka, cast to play an Indian tribal member, were all arrested on Dec. 17, 2013.

According to Captain David James of the Cape Girardeau County Sheriff's Office, the three were charged with possession of up to 35 grams of marijuana, unlawful use of drug paraphernalia and minor visible signs of intoxication with a blood alcohol content of more than .02 percent. All three charges are misdemeanors.

The three students were arrested in the Juden Creek Conservation Area right after midnight, according to James. Their court date is set for Feb. 25 in Jackson, Mo.

Nacy said he was informed of the charges on Wednesday, Feb. 12, and the decision to remove the cast members from the show was announced later that night at rehearsal, according to a member of the show's crew, whose name has been withheld because the crew member said they have been asked not to speak about the changes.

With only two weeks left until the show is scheduled to open on Feb. 26, several measures are being taken in order make sure the show will be a success.

"Even though for these three individuals it's very bad, for the rest of the people that are still in the production, it's going to be a positive experience," the crew member said.

Professional actress Emily S. Grosland will fill the role of Peter Pan, according to multiple members of the show's cast. Grosland has performed many regional and touring roles and even some roles in New York.

"Having a professional actress is going to be more of a success because that might entice people from the campus and the community," the crew member said.

Another crew member had a different reaction to a student's role being filled by a professional.

"I kind of wish it was a student doing it because this is our department," the student said. " We deserve it, but it's probably the best option for time's sake."

It has been confirmed by several crew members that sophomore Brendan O'Brien, originally the assistant director, will now play the part of John. The Indian tribal member's role will not be replaced. The choreography will be modified so that his contribution will not be needed.

Nacy said it was not his decision to have the three removed from the show but instructions from the university's administration.

"I have 100 percent confidence that the show will still be a success," Nacy said.

Peter Pan will be performed at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 26-27 and March 1, 8 p.m. on Feb. 28 and 2 p.m. on March 2 in the Donald C. Bedell Performance Hall. Tickets range between $17 to $20 and can be bought at the River Campus Box Office or by calling 573-651-2265.