I have been watching pantomimes at the Mayflower, Southampton, for over 40 years and this year’s Peter Pan is well up there with the best of them. There is so much fun for children in this glorious production – and you don’t need special effect glasses to be entertained. The emergence of the crocodile is stunning and all the principals bring so much to this hit show.
Marti Pellow clearly relishes his role of Captain Hook and is as evil as you could wish for. He has written some of his own songs to suit the theme of the show and they really work. There is still so much power in his voice and he joins in some really funny routines with natural ease.
The surprise hit of the show is Darren Day (pictured) as Smee. Sadly during his long career his off-stage life has too often made the headlines. In reality, he has such a great talent and can still wow the audience with superb impressions. He sings well and the kids love his antics and his remarkable memory in some great comedy moments.
The Grumbleweeds come close to stealing the show on several occasions and they present some of the funniest moments. The Timbuktu Tumblers are a sensation and fit so perfectly into this production.
Micha Richardson is stunning as Tiger Lily and reveals a fabulous voice. She also joins in the fun with great skill. Jaym Hensley brings so much realism to the part of Peter Pan. It’s so much more effective when played by a young man. The whole cast sing so strongly, with Cassie Compton, as Wendy, in particularly fine form.
This is a a fantastic Peter Pan. Congratulations to everyone involved.
John Hannam
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