James M. Barrie’s classic tale of youth and adventure still speaks to the child within.
Peter Pan, presented by HITS theater, with dazzling sets and an exciting journey to Neverland Friday night at the Miller Outdoor Theatre.
Peter (Jennifer Laporte) befriends Wendy (Monique Groen), an ideal mother for the Lost Boys and her two brothers, and whisks them away to an island where danger is lurking around every corner and villainous pirates have a thirst for revenge.
The infamous Captain Hook (Kregg Alan Dailey) lost his hand after Peter severed it and feed it to a ravenous crocodile. The two have been nemeses ever since.
The lively cast and the exciting series of events captivate children and adults alike.
The set, first made famous by gymnast Cathy Rigby, was like a child’s dream with thick forests, a crude pirate ship and a gigantic, steamy mushroom.
Rigby’s musical scores and elaborate choreography are nice complements to the showy set.
The pirates pair off for the scandalous dance ensemble, "Hook’s Tango," the lost boys and the Indians meet up for the underground communal, "Ugh a Wug," and the Lost Boys make a pact with Peter with, "I Won’t Grow Up."
Other aspects of the production, like the kooky crocodile in hot pursuit of Hook’s other hand and the charming costumes, add to the play’s appeal.
Young and old have enjoyed the story of Peter Pan since its theatrical debut in 1904.
The play’s immediate success came as a surprise to Barrie, as Peter Pan was an after thought and was only produced as part of a deal for another larger production that did not fare as well in the long run.
Aspects of the story mimic Barrie’s own life, and the play’s end is the one he’d wanted for himself.
Barrie was a small man at just under 5 feet and maintained several of his boyish mannerism well into his adult life. His brother’s death haunted him throughout his childhood, and it is often attributed as adding to his peculiarities. He was largely ignored by his family and longed for his mother’s love after her favored son died.
Peter and the Lost Boys wish they had a mother, who they find in Wendy. She cooks for the boys and tells them bedtime stories, things Barrie’s childhood lacked.
Eventually, with the exception of Peter, the Lost Boys leave Neverland and grow up with Wendy and her family. Peter and Barrie stay forever young.
Peter Pan promises a good time for all, as it is fun and imaginative. Additional shows are April Thursday to Saturday at the Miller Outdoor Theatre. For more information visit www.milleroutdoortheatre.com.