Laugh all the way to Neverland

By: Toronto4Kids

This well known tale about the boy who never grew up follows a familiar story as the scene opens in London (but not England) at the Darling residence where we meet the children; Wendy - a Christina Aguilera wanna-be, John - a computer game whiz-kid and Michael - an asthmatic bookworm addicted to his puffer. And let's not forget Nana, the Darling family pet, portrayed by the very comical and talented Eddie Glen.

In soars Peter Pan (played by former ice-skating champion Kurt Browning Kurt aka the flying zucchini) in search of his shadow and some new kids to take back to Neverland, where things have become rather dull and boring. A little sprinkling of fairy dust thanks to Tinkerbell, along with some positive thoughts, and it's off to magical Neverland for a few zany escapades.

The pack meets up with the Lost Boys, who are desperate to make new friends. The Lost Boys may look like the "Old Boys" but they are endearing and childishly funny nonetheless.

Enter Hook - the prettiest and nastiest Pirate everyone loves to hate, who plots an evil scheme that would have him taking over Hollywood and eventually the rest of the World. Hook, played by Ross Petty, keeps the boos and jeering coming with his arrogant and hair-flinging portrayal of the wicked sea bandit.

The devilish plot thickens. Neverland is full of surprises and reality show spin-offs: "Neverland's Next Top Pirate", Neverland's Talent Show - a version of "American Idol" and "Who's Dumber than a 5th Grader". And, as in the original story, the malicious Captain Hook kidnaps the children... will Peter Pan be able to rescue them and foil the villainous Hook's evil plans?

In the final scene, as Browning throws on roller skates for his duel with Captain Hook, it makes for some hilarious moments, and impressive jumps and footwork. Browning is completely at ease in his role, and in his acting debut, he demonstrates strong improvisational skills and lots of charm and personality - right up to the scene where he battles Hook.

Peter Pan: The Family Musical That's Silly, Very Silly that opened at the Elgin Theatre, November 22, 200, mostly stays true to the original stage play written by James M. Barrie... with a few twists of course. Through elaborate sets and slick costumes, lots of skating innuendos, clever scripts, engaging songs, dazzling choreography, and a Rapping, Hip-Hop Crocodile that brings down the house, it's a pretty impressive show. Kids can enjoy booing loudly, talking back at the stage and singing along. It all adds up to a satisfying family evening of musical theatre!

"Peter Pan" runs through January 6, 2008 at the Elgin Theatre in Toronto. For more information, visit www.rosspetty.com.

©December 2007 Toronto4Kids™