The Stage

Peter Pan

Published Thursday 15 December 2005 at 14:05 by Natalie Anglesey

This panto version of JM Barrie’s captivating story is full of glitz and special effects in a show which is technically quite challenging.

Jon Conway compensates for the liberties he has taken with the text by providing a fast-moving story.

Stephanie Lawrence takes the title role and also directs, sings and does most of the flying extremely well. Laser lighting initially conveys the impression of Tinkerbell before she turns into a blonde, roller-blading Barbie doll.

Steve McFadden wears a ridiculous blonde wig as Mr Darling. He also doubles as the wicked Captain Hook and takes jokes about wigs and his Eastenders’ connections in his stride.

Louise English plays both Mrs Darling and a Marilyn Monroe-esque magical mermaid. Matt Slack proved popular as Smee, with an unashamed impersonation of Brian Conley.

The band sounded on good form, with music by Claire Dallison and Ian Wherry.

The audience participation levels were high, particularly when they had the chance to throw foam bricks back at Hook. However, the poignant moments are lost somewhere amongst the glitter, although nobody seemed to mind as they were too busy enjoying themselves.