Peter Pan | Review

Peter Pan feels like a classic story told every Christmas in different productions up and down the country but Alan Pollock’s adaptation of JM Barrie’s book, performed at the Barn Theatre, is unlike any you’ll have seen before. In this production, a man finds himself staying in a hotel a long way from home but despite this, he doesn’t want to miss telling his daughter a bedtime story. So the Father tells his daughter the classic tale of Peter Pan, playing all the characters himself!

The Creative Team

Alan Pollock’s adaptation is concise and tells the story at a whistle-stop pace. The fast moving nature of the production keeps the piece engaging. Kirk Jameson’s direction is dynamic, moving between locations swiftly only really having a singular set in a very small space. Joe Price’s lighting design is outstanding and really elevates the show, alongside Benjamin Collins’ brilliantly creative projection design. Nick Barstow’s music for the production works wonders in creating the swashbuckling, adventure-filled feeling desired, which is no easy task with a cast of one.

The Cast

Waylon Jacobs is the only performer seen on stage and he plays every character whilst narrating the story as well. His voice acting is great and he is an outstanding storyteller. He is completely engaging and keeps the audience in the palm of his hands. Georgia Dibbs voices his daughter and she adds more energy to the piece and the relationship between father and daughter is completely convincing, despite not actually physically seeing them together.

Conclusion

The Barn Theatre’s production of Peter Pan is the perfect Christmas treat. With a running time of just under an hour, this lovely and simple production is a must see for all ages, whether you need to entertain the kids or you want a fix of nostalgia.

Peter Pan runs at the Barn Theatre with in person audiences until 3rd January, with livestreamed performances from 23rd December.