A High-Flying Spectacle

Peter Pan, A Musical Adventure

 

Looking up in the sky it’s not a bird, a plane or Superman; it’s that boy who never grew up, Peter Pan, played here by Johnny Shea, one of several talented company members making their CST debuts. Based upon Sir James M. Barrie’s 1905 play, the story became an instant hit, both in England and America. It made legends of actresses Maude Adams and later Jean Arthur in the title role. When, in 1954 the play was transformed into a musical starring Mary Martin and Cyril Ritchard, it not only won multiple Tony Awards but became an instant family classic and went on to become a seasonal holiday hit when it was later televised. The boy who refused to grow up has, in one form or another, delighted audiences of all ages the world over each time.

This new production is no exception. With a new libretto by Elliot Davis, and a score by George Stiles (music) and Anthony Drewe (lyrics) this Peter Pan is thoroughly captivating. Shea absolutely makes this role his own, employing a commanding voice, offhand mannerisms and the wild abandon and athleticism found in a feisty young boy. His comic timing is impeccable as is some of his unexpected deadpan comic line delivery. This magical production, directed and choreographed with spirit and whimsy by Amber Mak, employs some breathtaking stage combat, thanks to Fight Director Jerry Galante. 

This spectacular summer production for young audiences boasts lots of additional theatrical magic, courtesy of many other artists and technicians. Talented Kory Danielson, along with the always impressive Matt Deitchman, serve as Music Director and Orchestrator, making this production literally sing. Jeff Award-winning scenic designer and Projections Designer, Jeff Kmiec and Mike Tutaj make the worlds of early 20th century London and enchanting Neverland come alive. Enhanced by some especially dazzling lighting effects, created by Greg Hoffman, and a fine sound design by Ray Nardelli, this production totally immerses audiences in this spellbinding world. Embellished with lovely, expressive costumes, by Jeff Award-winner Theresa Ham, and wild wigs and makeup designs, fashioned by Richard Jarvie, this production is as polished and first-rate as anything seen on Broadway or the West End.    

Mr. Shea is matched by an equally talented supporting cast headed by the comically conniving James Konicek, also in his CST debut, as both a very spoiled Mr. Darling and the villainous Captain Hook. Whether conjuring up musical mayhem, kidnapping Wendy and the Lost Boys or sword-fighting with Peter Pan, Konicek resembles a comically dapper Vincent Price in his pirate drag. And there’s more than a hint of Gilbert and Sullivan to his portrayal of Hook.

Other standouts in this cast include a terrific Roberta Burke, doubling as Mrs. Darling and the one-eyed pirate, Cecco, and Elizabeth Stenholt as the most perfectly portrayed Wendy imaginable. Both are talented singers, skilled actresses and overflow with personality. As John and Michael, Cameron Goode and Carter Graf are excellent. All three Darling children, are competent aerialists, charming actors and accomplished singers and dancers. 

The four Lost Boys are all individually and collectively delightful. John Marshall, Jr., so terrific recently in “Yank” at Pride Films & Plays, is very funny as Slightly Soiled, Peter’s second-in-command. Like his three Neverland cohorts, Colin Lawrence, as Curly, Michael Kurowski, as Tootles, and Dance Captain Travis Austin Wright, as Nibs, he gives his all to every dance number. And special mention must be made of the always wonderful Jonathan Butler Duplessis’ heart-warming Nana, the giant St. Bernard nursemaid, as well as his gleefully menacing pirate, Bill Jukes. Sean Patrick Fawcell is properly fastidious as Smee and Christina Hall portrays a sassy, dentally challenged pirate queen named Starkey. The entire play is beautifully narrated by Rengin Altay, as the Storyteller, about whom we learn a secret in the play’s final moments.

All-in-all Amber Mak’s enchanting new production is bewitching, well conceived and directed, and allows J.M. Barrie’s beloved story to magically come alive. George Stiles and Anthony Drewe’s pop musical score is sure to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages. The production is filled with sights, sounds and wild spectacle that engage everyone’s imagination. This slightly abbreviated production runs just over an hour, making it perfect for young theatergoers. When Peter asks the audience to help bring Tinkerbell back to life the applause is thunderous, as it is for the high-flying finale with Johnny Shea soaring out over the audience all the way up to the top of the balcony. This is a summer production that should not be missed.

Highly Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

 

Presented June 27-August 19 by Chicago Shakespeare Theatre in their Courtyard Theatre on Navy Pier.

Tickets are available in person at the CST box office, by calling them at 312-595-5600 or by going to www.chicagoshakes.com.

 

Additional information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com.