Hall for Cornwall, Truro, Cornwall – until the 31 December 2023
Reviewed by Kerry Gilbert
5*****
‘Think Your Happiest Thoughts’
This year, audiences are being treated to a Cornwall Playhouse production of Peter Pan which is running at the Hall for Cornwall until 31st December 2023. The entire show is a delightful spectacle, full of huge sets, glitzy costumes and plenty of laughs for the whole family.
The atmosphere was lively and is it any wonder as it was clear to see that the audience was in for a real treat! The show incorporates a mixture of modern pop classics to great effect – there’s truly something for everyone, and you’re sure to be singing the songs on your way home.
Ollie McFarlane is charismatic and dynamic as Peter Pan, who gave an impressive performance with the talented Jade Lauren, as Wendy. The pair complimented each other brilliantly, and their flying across the set against the backdrop of a star lit sky with Take That’s – Rule the World playing was truly magnificent.
Sara Markland is a sweet and chirpy Tinkerbell, with great vocal range and friendliness you’d expect from being Peter Pan’s friend. Olivia Warren has the audience thoroughly entertained as Nana, excellent comic timing and her saying Doggy Doggy Doggy! audience replies Woof, Woof, Woof! was a display of local humour and popular with the Children, whilst batting out sweets.
Lucy Park showcases a powerful voice as Mrs Darling, alongside Dan Ball’s excellent Mr Darling, and their performance of Anything You Can Do (I Can Do Better) was a very popular part of the show!
The show’s ‘Lost Boys’ were cute and just as superior as their adult counterparts.
No panto would be complete without a villain and the Kernow King (Edward Rowe) did a superb job as Captain Hook, giving a powerful performance throughout. The hilarious take on The Twelve Days of Christmas was undoubtedly my favourite part – Be prepared for this and it will leave you in stitches!
I love how the classic story is seamlessly brought up to date with song choice and references to modern culture. The special effects are incredible and made it a professional and clever performance. Panto is escapism for the whole family, and this production delivers this in buckets – along with festive joy, sparkle, and cheer!