J.M. Barrie’s classic tale about the boy who never grows up, is a story that is universally known and loved. From the Disney animated film to countless pantomimes playing across the country, it would be hard to find anyone unfamiliar with Peter Pan. Creating a fresh and exciting take is a tall order, however Grange Theatre have achieved just this.
The theatre itself has been ingeniously transformed into an impressive in-the-round setting. What starts off as the London skyline effortlessly transforms to a whole host of other locations from the Darlings family home to the lost boy’s secret hideout! With a fireplace in another corner of the theatre and Captain Hooks ship unexpectedly bursting into the audience, you never know what is coming next. What however is most enjoyable about it being staged in this way, is seeing younger audience members faces light up as they are mesmerised completely by the show.
Peter Pan gives audiences what they want with a whole host of pantomime elements. From audience call outs when Smee (Edwina Lee) greets the audience, to Tinker Bell (Amelia Ball) making sure that people believe in fairies, there’s plenty of opportunities for audiences to get involved. At one point Tinker Bell strolled through the audience sprinkling fairy dust on to children as they closed their eyes, providing unique magical memories that will no doubt stay with them. It was these moments which really gave the show heart, elevating it above some of the more generic pantomime offerings elsewhere.
What really sets the show apart though is the exciting use of aerial stunts, performed expertly by Solomon Bain as Peter Pan. Not only are these moments impressive, but they fit effortlessly with the narrative itself allowing the audience to be captivated in the magic. Other cast members get involved in the stunts, with a charming scene where the Darling children learn to fly for the first time. Through consultation and choreography from Barton Circus’s Sara Frith, they have created something truly special which you are unlikely to see anywhere else.
Whilst all the performances are superb, a particular mention should go to Ben Simon for his interpretation of Captain Hook. He balances the menace of Hook wonderfully, being hideously villainous without being too scary for younger children in the audience. Amelia Ball as Tinker Bell provides bucketloads of fun, keeping everyone grinning from ear to ear whenever she was on the stage. The entire cast are superb, including the young company who give it their all throughout.
Peter Pan offers something different to the usual festive offerings, whilst still giving families everything they want and more. With limited tickets remaining, you can catch Peter Pan at Grange Theatre until 4 January 2025.
Note: My ticket was gifted. Irrespective of whether a ticket is gifted or bought, I always ensure that my reviews are fair and based on my honest opinion alone.