Peter Pan JR

Peter Pan JR is the classic story rewritten for schools and youth societies. The directors Alexa Davies, Charlie Goodchild, Michael Hunter and Sam Curzon did a very good job of working as a team to direct this show. It is clear they are not new to performing and have come through the ranks. Little touches mean so much, and sometimes even seasoned directors would not have thought of simply closing the curtain and leaving it open just enough to look like the characters were on a window ledge — simple and clever!

Tilly played the leading role of Peter Pan. She had complete command of the stage whenever she was on it, and she had a lovely voice. Believable and strong throughout. Tinkerbell was played by Lexi; she said nothing, but her cheekiness was enough to win the audience over!

The Darling family was played by Molly (Wendy Darling), Zach (John Darling), Edwin (Michael Darling), and Isabel and Jasper as Mrs and Mr Darling. They worked well as a family, and I particularly enjoyed the number where the children flew with Peter and Tinkerbell to Neverland. I also enjoyed Abby’s performance as Nana the dog.

Anne played Hook and Riley was her counterpart as Smee. Anne gave Hook a good nasty edge; however, I do feel she could have taken it a little further, as Hook is a big, over‑the‑top baddie.

The split of the children between the Lost Boys and Hook’s group was well thought out, and I enjoyed their group numbers. These were well done, as it can sometimes be difficult on this stage to space a cast so everyone can be seen, but this was achieved effectively.

The set was good — well designed and painted. Stage manager Amelia Brown and the rest of the backstage crew, as well as the technical team, were members of Expressions, and they did such a good job.

Digswell Players do such a wonderful job of working with youth performers. I have seen many of these performers get better and better, and now they are reliable technicians, stage managers and directors. Not just Digswell Players, but I am sure many other amateur theatre companies will benefit from these youngsters’ expertise!

Thank you to Carl for his hospitality and, again, another great Expressions show!

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.