Peter Pan, The Musical

The Old Rep Theatre

Birmingham

5th - 31st December 2023

A production by arrangement with International Theatre and Music Limited. Book, music and lyrics by Piers Chater Robinson. Based on the novel by J.M. Barrie.

The fictional character of Peter Pan first appeared in J.M. Barrie's novel, the 1902 story 'The Little White Bird.' and then appeared in 1904 as Peter Pan.

The initial and opening scene is set in the bedroom of The Darling children as they slept and where Peter Pan mysteriously appears, searching and trying to retrieve his shadow. What a sensational start to the performance as we are introduced to Mr Darling (Matthew Christmas), Mrs Darling (Penny Ashmore), Wendy Darling (Rhian Lynch), John Darling (Morag Maryland), Michael Darling (Daniel Gaulder) and Peter Pan (Thea Jo-Wolfe) and perfectly choreographed dance and song set the scene and a high standard for the duration and the rest of the production. I must add a very strong opening scene from Penny Ashmore, perfecting two completely contrasting roles, whom was charming and elegant as Mrs Darling yet swashbuckling and brutish as one of Hooks brazen pirates!!

Peter Pan elaborates to the children that he is from the island of Neverland and is the leader of the lost boys, spending time; adventurous time, taking on and battling Captain Hook and his band of cut-throat pirates. Thea Jo-Wolfe as Peter was a delight to watch; extremely confident, comical and flamboyant at times dressed in the classic, iconic Peter Pan attire of a short sleeved green tunic and booties. Accompanying Peter Pan on his adventures is friend, and best friend at that, the fairy Tinker bell. Plenty of audience interaction to save Tinker bell!

The adventure takes the children Wendy, John and Michael on a journey; along the way encountering pirates, creatures, fairies and a 'snapping' crocodile all in the company of Peter Pan with Wendy at the helm taking on and becoming the mother figure role.

Several scene changes occur during the 1 hour 40 minute production and focus on the cosy London home of The Darlings, appropriately decorated and recreating a scene from a bygone era.

The crocodile scene is captivating and significant and as it approaches a ticking clock can be heard, deep inside its belly as it hunts down Hook to eat the rest of him, having previously eaten his hand! The lighting is dramatic and captured the audiences attention, especially the younger members in the auditorium as the huge crocodile engulfed the stage and the silhouette of Hook disappeared in the latter stages of the play.

On the way home to London arch-enemy of Peter Pan, Captain Hook captures the children, makes them walk the plank aboard his ship. However, all is not lost as Peter Pan rescues them and safely they return home. Hook played by Matthew Christmas in a dual role (Mr Darling / Captain Hook) led a strong cast in both roles, cunning and conniving as Hook and charming as Mr Darling. There were elements in the character of Mr Darling of the classic British actor Rex Harrison as his air of authority cascaded across the family in the London home scenes.

A visual feast of song and dance tantalised all in this classic tale of hero versus villain. However, with a feast of song my only criticism being, that I would have liked to have seen a few more musical scenes as the cast were vibrant, enchanting in parts and radiant! You will not be disappointed!!

Members of the audience are warned of the use of bright flashing lights, theatrical smoke, props - swords and guns and loud noises!

A special mention to Rhian Lynch (Wendy Darling) for an outstanding performance. She was truly inspiring to watch as she graced the boards with confidence and flair!

If you haven't yet been to the theatre this festive season, then this show is a must see show!

Peter Pan, The Musical is 'Positively Perfect Entertainment!'

Peter Pan, The Musical is currently at The Old Rep, Birmingham until the 31st December 2023. For tickets and further information regarding booking visit www.oldreptheatre.co.uk