FOUR STARS, until December 31. Phoebe Llanwarne enjoys a bedazzling take on Neverland with crocodiles and acrobatics adding to the fun
DREW TOMMONS
As I walked in to Camberley Theatre and took my seat amidst a sea of multi-coloured flashing toys, pick-and-mix sweet cups and sugar-fuelled kids less than a quarter of my age, I struggled to remember the last time that I’d seen a pantomime and what it had entailed. But when the set opened with a theatrical remix of London Calling and a break dancing dog called Nana, it all came flooding back.
Based on J. M. Barrie’s 1904 play and 1911 novel, Camberley Theatre's rendition of Peter Pan retains the original dazzle and emotion, but with a unique comic tone and several new characters. Integrating catchy pop songs and contemporary references and jokes about Trump, it is easily accessible for all ages, and is filled with puns (much to my delight).
Particular praise goes to the costume and set design which was intricate, bedazzling and quick-changing throughout the whole performance. Snappy the crocodile and Mrs Smee the dame's costumes were especially eye-catching.
Special mention goes to Sarah Cunnington and Grace Holroyd for their confident and touching vocals. Cunnington took on three distinct roles in the performance, distinguishing between them markedly.
DREW TOMMONS
It took me until the interval to notice any crying children and their flashing toys, which I take to be thanks to the incredible sets and costumes and engaging vocals. I can’t be certain, but I don’t remember Wendy in the film being so eager to give up her role as mother to the lost boys and return home to Kensington. I like to think that after having witnessed the astonishing mess and noise that the children in the audience were capable of producing, she was smart enough to escape from Neverland.
Although I don’t consider myself a typical panto fan, I thoroughly enjoyed this rendition of a timeless classic and would definitely recommend. I confess I did have to look away after Peter Pan’s third consecutive flip in the air when fixed to his acrobatic harness. And, in light of the Darling family’s slightly uneconomical motto at this time of the year, I will definitely be Leaving the Window Open tonight uncertain of what nocturnal animal might fly in but hopeful it’ll lead to an adventure as magical as the one which I saw on stage today.
Peter Pan is at Camberley Theatre until Dec 31, book tickets here
