The stage production of “Peter Pan” has been brought into a new life after 70 years onstage. The new adaptation, by playwright Larissa FastHorse, will bring out the child inside everyone and reconnect the audience to the story they all know.
“I haven’t felt transported like that since I watched it for the first time when I was a kid.” A fan told Kurt Perry, the actor who plays Smee, at a stage door.
Fans of all ages will be called back to the story, whether they remember the 1953 Disney animated movie or the 1960 recording of Mary Martin as Peter Pan.
The timeless tale follows the perpetual child Peter Pan and the Darling children’s journey to Neverland.
According to Perry, the new adaptation of the story works to portray the indigenous characters in a new light and give a voice to the female characters more directly. “We’ve really been able to create an opportunity for every person who comes to the show, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, and race to get to imagine themselves flying with Peter. Because at the end of the day, that’s what it’s about, this magic for young people and those young of heart.” Perry said.
The adaptation also features a new song, “Friends Forever.” This is a joyous dancing ensemble number by the characters of Tiger Lily, Wendy, Peter, and The Lost Boys, who come together to put on “a big show stopper,” according to Perry.
The new song and the cast work to bring the show into 2024. “The wonderful thing about Neverland is it exists in perpetuity. Neverland exists no matter what’s going on in our world.” Perry commented.
The show is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with family near the holiday season. “I hope that people leave the theater with a little bit of wonder” Perry said.
While fans can look forward to the new song and ideas, favorites such as “I’m Flying” will delight in this next generation’s adaptation of a favorite story.
