Go on and join The Old Rep Theatre for something magical this Christmas as Peter Pan The Musical flies into Birmingham.
Based on the infamous novel by J.M. Barrie, with book, music, and lyrics by Piers Chater Robinson. This production is produced by the BOA group. Alec Fellows-Bennett returns to head up the creative team as Director, with CiCi Howells as Choreographer, Stephen Watkins as Musical Director, Daniel O’Neill as Set Designer and Leanne Fitchett as Costume Designer. Alongside them is Will Monks as Lighting and Projection Designer and Clive Meldrum as Sound Designer.
The story follows a free-spirited, mischievous young boy who can fly and never grows up, Peter Pan spends his never-ending childhood having endless adventures in Neverland as the leader of the Lost Boys, interacting with fairies, pirates, mermaids, Native Americans, and occasionally ordinary children from the world outside Neverland. This musical adventure sees the Darling children, Wendy, John, and little Michael as they embark on a voyage to Neverland with the loveable Peter Pan. Along the way, they encounter a host of surprises from fantastical fairies and a carnivorous crocodile to a pack of troublesome pirates led by Captain Hook himself!
Come and see Wendy and her brothers navigate the skies, flying over oceans to the enchanting world of eternal youth, where no one grows up. Indulge in nostalgia as you join Peter Pan and his band of mischievous Lost Boys on a journey that will whisk you away and remind you of what it is to be a child again and remind you of the pure joy and innocence of life.
Thea Jo Wolfe (The Fiesta Fawns) will play the role of Peter Pan. Joining the adventure to Neverland, Rhian Lynch (Rapunzel, Theatre Chipping Norton) as Wendy Darling, Matthew Christmas (Three Little Birds, ITV) as Hook/Mr Darling, Penny Ashmore (Killing Eve, BBC) as Mrs Darling/Starkey, Stefan Davis (Doctors, BBC) as Smee and Morag Mayland (Polar Express Birmingham) as John Darling.
The professional team will be joined by a student ensemble from BOA’s respective academies, BOA Creative, Digital & Performing Arts Academy and BOA Stage & Screen Production Academy, whose performance will excite audiences of all ages as well as allow them to work in a professional setting for the first time.
Overall, this was an enjoyable production full of whimsical moments that created a lot of laughter. However, at times for me, some parts felt underprepared. I also believe that vocal projection proved challenging for some cast members as it was hard to hear them over the backing soundtrack. But this show provides those who are still learning the opportunity to experience performing in the industry which is an invaluable opportunity.
This swashbuckling production promises to be packed with captivating costumes, spectacular songs, creative choreography, and fantastic flying sequences. Peter Pan The Musical will be an unforgettable theatrical extravaganza, making it an unmissable family treat this festive season.
Peter Pan continues at the Old Rep until Sunday 31st December 2023. Tickets are available at the following link https://www.oldreptheatre.co.uk/peter-pan
Reviewer: Priya Gupta
Reviewed: 9th December 2023
North West End UK Rating: