Peter Pan Jr – the Musical: A play that pulls you back into the joys of childhood
The Peter Pan Jr. - The Musical embodied the spirit of childhood, taking the audience throughout Never Never Land.
A foggy backdrop, complete with a full moon, window and bunk beds, served as the perfect setting for a colourful ball of light known as Tinkerbell, glowing across the stage in the Peter Pan Jr – The Musical, based on the play by Sir J.M. Barrie, that makes one really ask themselves, “Do I want to grow up?”
This question ran throughout the lively performances, while musical numbers kept everyone reliving that magical feeling of childhood and embodying Peter Pan’s spirit.
The adept young boy Gidem Biljong played the protagonist, naturally slipping into the boyish charm the character has always been known for. Wendy Darling’s gentle nature was portrayed by Amelia Oosthuizen, who managed to exhibit this sweetness without over-exaggeration – a difficult feat for theatre.
Captain Hook also delivered a standout performance. Mischievous and dramatic, he even went full-on faint at the tick-tocking of his crocodile nemesis, leaving a room full of adults and children laughing. He and his evil pirate compadres were a source of giggles for every attendee.
Wendy’s siblings, the Lost Boys and the Picaniny tribe, each had their own quirky, strong identities and voices.
The songs also encapsulated the play’s charming lyrical core. Standouts included the delightful Never Never Land, the comically ominous Best Villain, and a rendition of I Won’t Grow Up, filled with the well-expected indignation, the children’s voices adding that extra pinch of magic.
Talking about everyone who took part in the production’s general experience, Producers Tiaan Kirsten-Lubbe and Lian Sachse shared a statement: “Peter Pan Jr has reminded us exactly why youth theatre matters. When young performers are given a real stage, a serious process, and the chance to dream boldly, something extraordinary happens — and this cast proved that with every performance.”
So, after a night of faeries, pirates and flying, the answer to the question about growing is a resounding “No thanks. I’d rather stay in Never Never Land.”
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