What a great way for families to start the Christmas Panto season with The Pantomine Adventures of Peter Pan written by Fortina Stone, directed by Laura Newnes and produced by Dreamworld Entertainments.
The Gladstone Theatre is transformed into Neverland and Dreamworld Entertainments bring J M Barrie’s magical tale about the boy who never grew up to life delivering traditional family entertainment.
The story starts with Peter (Lewis Pryor) entering the nursery at the Darling household where Wendy (Darcey Blake), Joan and Michael are going to bed. Peter has visited before and is looking for his shadow which he had left behind and Tink (Tasha Rowson) the mischievous fairy has accompanied him. Peter tells them that he lives in Neverland as Captain of the lost boys and persuades Wendy, Joan and Michael to come back to Neverland with him so Wendy can look after the Lost Boys. Tink, is already jealous of Wendy and sets out to cause trouble!
On arriving in Neverland they come across Peter’s nemesis, Captain Hook (Darren John Langford) and his pirate crew headed by Mr Smee (Michael Alan Bailey) and no panto is complete with a dame in this case Dame Tootles (Michael Chapman) who adds to the laughter.
Captain Hook has captured Tiger Lily (Ellie Clayton) and Peter and Wendy are trying to find her whilst Captain Hook is hunting down Peter as he just wants to get rid of him once and for all! Will Captain Hook capture Peter. Will Wendy, Joan and Michael return to London or are they doomed to stay in Neverland. Will Captain Hook get his comeuppance and will the crocodile appear?
There is a lot to love about this production, a singalong soundtrack, laughter, a sprinkle of fairy dust, plenty of slapstick, great singing and dancing and plenty of “oh yes I did” and “oh no you didn’t!” Families cheered, booed, laughed and sang along.
The whole cast is fabulous, Peter is played with real boyish charm by Lewis Pryor, Wendy played by Darcey Blake has a beautiful singing voice, Tink is played mischievously well by Tasha Rowson, Captain Hook is a complete pantomine villian, Mr Smee is the heart of the show and Michael Chapman plays Dame Tootles hilariously.
The lighting and sound effects help create the atmosphere and add to the show, the costumes are stunning and the ensemble cast are fantastic.
It really is a fabulous festive treat for all the family and Mr Smee steals the show!
Playing at The Gladstone Theatre until 31st December, https://gladstonetheatre.org.uk/events/peter-pan/
Reviewer: Ann Smith
Reviewed: 7th December 2025
North West End UK Rating: