How could a pair of K-Mart double-runner ice skates, strapped on at just 2 ½ years old on her grandmother’s frozen Chicago driveway, spark a lifelong journey of learning and creativity?           For Gina Barker, it was the first step on the.       path to creating Planet Peek-A-Boo.

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From the moment she felt the joy of gliding across the ice, Gina’s curiosity and determination led her to a professional skating career. Years of fundamental training and dedication to mastering the sport taught her the transformative power of early learning. These lessons became the cornerstone of her belief that nurturing skills and imagination from a young age lays the foundation for success in any endeavor.

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In 1986, Gina’s dream came true when she was cast in the Disney on Ice production of Sport Goofy. Her talent and creativity soon earned her roles portraying iconic Disney characters like Roger Rabbit and Goofy’s son Max, introducing these beloved figures to new audiences. Perhaps most notably, Gina was a good friend (wink, wink) to Mickey Mouse himself for over eight years, bringing Disney’s most famous character to life and delighting fans of all ages.

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Over her nearly 15-year career, Gina experienced firsthand the profound impact these characters had on children and families around the world. Beyond the rink, her role extended to deeply meaningful work with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and weekly hospital visits, where she brought joy and hope to children. These experiences solidified her understanding of the power of art and entertainment to inspire, educate, and bring comfort to children.

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Fueled by her professional success and her passion for childhood learning, Gina began to envision a world of her own creation. She dreamed of characters who could spark curiosity, encourage discovery, and nurture a love of learning in young minds. This vision led to the birth of the Peek-A-Boo Crew from Planet Peek-A-Boo—a vibrant, imaginative world dedicated to “Peeking Into Learning” and celebrating the joy of exploration and creativity.

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Gina’s journey, from the frozen driveway to the stage and beyond, is a testament to the importance of following one’s passions and using them to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.