What a joy to fly off to Neverland before Christmas as Peter Pan delivers a swashbuckling and dazzling spectacle this festive season.
A witty script packed with pretty much every reference that sums up a crazy 2022 keeps the crowd entertained for more than two and a half hours.
Every aspect that you love about J.M. Barrie's beloved story is incorporated into this magical tale and it is the perfect family night out.
Matt Lapinskas, of EastEnders fame, takes on the mantle of the boy who never grew up and aces the aerial challenges while delivering a number of upbeat numbers.
He and Darren Day are the perfect rivals as Peter looks to end Captain Hook's villainy in Neverland - with the help of the boys and girls of course!
The theatre's casting call has discovered some future stars and the biggest joy is seeing so much homegrown talent taking centre stage.
Eliza Walker is one of those. The 21-year-old looked already a dab hand at being a panto leading lady playing Wendy Darling and her vocals are one of the highlights of the production.
A special mention must go to the young singers and dancers that make up the three teams performing in the run as the Lost Children and as Michael and John Darling.
From the big group numbers to leading audience interaction, the young performers are a stand out and for me, Revolting Children and When I Grow Up were highlights of my night.
Mike McLean as Mr Smee keeps the audience in fine voice, and delivers belly laugh after belly laugh.
Teamed with Gavin Ashbarry as Mrs Smee, they are the best comedy duo.
When entering the theatre you are wondering how is Peter Pan going to fly?
Well, the creative team put special effects to very good use to help transport us to the magical world of Neverland which is brought to life through beautifully crafted scenery.
The show moves through with great pace but it never skimps on any of the key elements that make panto, panto.
In addition act two features some awesome acrobatics, quite a spectacle after several big dance numbers!
Make sure to bring your biggest voice to echo around the Regent to boo, cheer and yell to ensure the heroes do not meet a watery end by walking the plank.
The show has the best audience participation and my advice to anyone in the first few rows, bring your best firing arm as we head into the final part of the show.
The only thing to say is tick tock! Time is running out faster than a crocodile with a clock in its belly to see the show.
Peter Pan runs until December 31.
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