Peter Pan

Upstagers panto “Peter Pan” has a fresh new feel about it – it seems to be a break from the more traditional panto that audiences may be used to, but I thought the production was absolutely superb.

I loved the approach that the very talented writer and co-director Ash Caton had with this production.  Ash also took the role of John (Dame) Darling – a refreshing take on the traditional pantomime dame, which introduced us to the cross-dressing glamour of this infectious character.  He mentions in the programme that he “wants to take wonderful and well known characters and give them a slightly new perspective on things and present the whole story with a little bit of modern relevance”...this is exactly what he did with this production.

All the characters played their parts “over the top”, oozing confidence and professionalism from start to finish.

I loved Jack Hanson’s portrayal of Peter Pan – cocky and arrogant - as he attempted to “woo” Wendy Darling, superbly played by Lucy Carter.  It was refreshing to have the principal boy played as a male lead for a change.  Jack and Lucy worked well together – Lucy firmly wrung every drop of humour out of her part with ease.  Her comedy timing and delivery was just perfect.

George Scaife transitioned from Mr Darling into Captain James Hook effortlessly.  He was “dashing” as Mr Darling and “dastardly” as Captain Hook, and his portrayal of both roles was simply brilliant.

Captain Hook’s sidekick Smee was played superbly by Elliot Broadfoot.  This was a fabulous comedy role which Elliot took to another level – never have I seen anyone play a part quite as enthusiastically as this young man.  I was exhausted watching him!

Superb supporting roles also came from Bethany Hare as Tinkerbell, Clementine Hall as Tiger Lily, Harry Tennant as Michael Darling and Patrick Hebbert as Nana & The Crocodile.  Every single principle and character portrayed their role with ease and each and every principal had a dynamic singing voice. 

This sparkling, all singing-all dancing production had a cast of well over eighty people ranging from the “tinies” to the “senior dancers”, all of whom sang and danced effortlessly.  The choreography by Megan Crowley was innovative and everyone was well drilled.

The Neverland Band, under the musical direction of Phil Walsh played brilliantly – and they were never too loud, ensuring that all dialogue could be heard, and every note sung came across loud and clear.  Sound and special effects were superbly supplied by John Trenouth.

With fantastically colourful costumes from Molly Limpets Theatrical Emporium Ltd and scenery by Prosceneium Ltd, the whole effect of this production was awash with colour and sparkle. 

Congratulations must go to Ash as writer, and co-director Andrew Hewitt for this brilliant production.  You must be so proud of this hugely talented company.
 

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