Peter Pan Musical

In this production of Piers Chater Robinson’s musical, based on JM Barrie’s well known story, 35 youngsters aged 8-14 years took us on a journey from a nursery in Victorian London to the magical Neverland (where children never grow old) and back with visits to the treacherous Mermaid Rock, an American Native encampment and a Pirate Ship en route.

Abi Leslie was outstanding in the title role of Peter Pan with excellent singing, acting and dancing skills belying her youth. Her enthusiasm for the role really shone through in the upbeat number “You Gotta Believe” when she had the audience on their feet clapping along in rhythm to save Tinkerbell’s life. However she showed she could handle the more emotional moments equally well in the sensitive duet “Don’t Say Goodbye” with Wendy towards the end of the second half. Maisy MacKay too gave an excellent performance as Wendy Darling with a delightful singing voice - as shown in her solo “Peter” in Act 1 and her duet with Peter – and strong acting and dancing abilities. Emilee Munro was impressive as the villainous, but crocodile fearing, Captain Hook as he led his band of Pirates in his quest to get revenge on Peter for chopping off one of his hands. Ellie Newlands in the non-speaking role of Peter’s Fairy friend Tinkerbell managed to convey all her messages and emotions very clearly. Strong support was given by Logan MacKay (Michael), Rebecca Paul (John), Robert Dennison (Mr Darling), Carla McKenzie (Mrs Darling), Archie Hunter (a cute Nana the Dog), Amelie Lot (Smee), Devan Thornley (Chief) and Charlotte Gibson (Tiger Lily). The chorus of Lost Boys, Pirates, Natives and Fairies all sang and moved well in the ensemble numbers such as “Nobody Wants To Grow Old”, “Braves To War” and the rousing finale mega -mix. The 8 strong band, under the leadership of Musical Director Rob Fryer at the keyboard, played well the various styles of music involved and were very supportive of the youthful voices. The set was simple and effective with use of back projections to indicate the various locations. However Director Graham Wilson, despite the confines of the stage space available, was able to include flying sequences for Peter, Wendy, Michael, John and Tinkerbell which brought a wow factor to the production and the actors playing these characters showed no signs of trepidation as they took to the air!

Well done everyone at Haddo Children’s Theatre for a delightful afternoon’s entertainment.

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