From the moment I step into the buzzing auditorium, with festive Christmas music filling the air, it's clear that Greenwich Theatre's production of Peter Pan promises an evening of warmth, laughter, and theatrical delight and it largely delivers.
The cleverly designed revolving set designed by Emily Bestow and built by SAS works makes ingenious use of the small stage, transforming the space with ease and keeping the action dynamic and visually engaging. Colourful, imaginative costumes also designed by Emily Bestow add to the spectacle, while the flying effects not credited bring genuine magic to the story. Vibrant projections designed by Hannah Schlenker sprinkled throughout the show feel exciting and inventive, contributing to a rich visual world that captivates children and adults alike.
At the centre of the show is a standout performance from Anthony Spargo as Captain Hook. His witty, skilfully judged humour and razor-sharp characterisation create a delightfully menacing yet irresistibly entertaining villain. Spargo's expressive facework and playful mincing keep the audience hanging on his every move.
Louise Cielecki's Smee is an energetic powerhouse whose enthusiasm, sparkling stage presence, and impressively strong vocals make her an audience favourite throughout. The decision to reinvent Tinkerbell as a Gen Z stereotype played with charm and comedic flair by Olivia Williamson adds a clever contemporary twist that resonates particularly well with younger audience members.
Samuel Bailey brings energy to the title role, combining strong acting with confident dancing and vocal ability. His performance anchors the show with heart and heroism.
Spargo's script is peppered with delightful cultural references, from Kenneth Williams nods to the ever-present Tick Tock, bridging decades of humour. The reimagining of Wendy's great-great-grandchildhood is intriguing and plants the seeds of something special; a deeper exploration of this storyline would be welcome.
The ensemble performs with boundless gusto, with Alex Marshall offering a memorable turn as the mermaid.
Moments of puppetry, including a cheeky parrot and a humorous Yoda parody, sprinkle classic panto magic throughout the evening.
The comedy is plentiful, appealing to children of all ages and more than a few delighted adults. A surprising highlight comes when the band joins in the fun, a refreshing and charming touch not often seen.
With its strong commitment to diverse casting, sharp writing, confident direction from Greenwich Theatre artistic director James Haddrell, and lively choreography by Nancy Kettle, the production delivers clever ideas and engaging storytelling worthy of its four-star rating.
Overall, this Peter Pan offers a thoroughly enjoyable escape from the real world two silly, laughter-filled hours of magic, music, and mischief. A wonderfully fun night out for the whole family, which runs until 11th January 2026 at the Greenwich Theatre.
Review: Jason Lane