Catch Mirvish’s high-Flying ‘Peter Pan’ before the curtain closes

Brighten your spirits this weekend with a high-flying and reimagined performance of the classic musical, Peter Pan, presented by Mirvish Productions. The beloved age-old story of the boy who wouldn’t grow up has captured the hearts and imaginations of audiences with stunning visuals, an updated script, and a talented cast. This Peter Pan production, featuring iconic songs like “I’m Flying,” “I Gotta Crow,” “I Won’t Grow Up,” and “Neverland,” is designed to appeal to audiences of all ages. But hurry – the curtain closes on Sunday (June 1).

Directed by Emmy Award winner Lonny Price, Peter Pan brings a fresh perspective to J.M. Barrie’s timeless bedtime story that’s spanned generations. A significant aspect of this new adaptation is the revised book by Indigenous playwright Larissa FastHorse. Her work addresses and removes culturally insensitive references, particularly concerning the character of Tiger Lily – played by Bailey Frankenberg, a member of the Choctaw and Cherokee Nations – and her tribe, presenting them with greater depth and respect. This shift is lauded for its more inclusive and modern interpretation of Neverland’s inhabitants.

Kruz Maldonado who plays Peter, says, at its essence, it’s still the same beloved Peter Pan story that we all remember. “We still pull a lot from the original production, but there are some new and thoughtful adjustments that they made which makes it exciting to see again,” says Maldonado. “One of them is me: Peter Pan is not played by a woman this time. We’ve added a couple of new songs that were not in the original and it takes place in modern London this time with some fun, new references. Our cast is so talented and there’s so much magic happening onstage.”

Visually, the production is colourful and captivating. Anna Louizos’ scenic design creates a lush and vibrant Neverland, from the charming Darling nursery to the detailed Jolly Roger pirate ship. Coupled with David Bengali’s impressive projections – updating the production with immersive technology – the audience is truly transported, soaring through star showers and shimmering seas alongside Peter Pan. Of course, this involves actually “flying” on stage. 

Maldonado, who was discovered by Price early in his theatre school career, calls the role of Peter the hardest one he’s had. “They really made sure to put me through the ringer with this one: You’re dancing, you’re singing, you’re flying, you’re fighting… and you must keep the energy up the entire show,” says Maldonado. “You must really think of where to place your stamina because it’s crazy!”

Aubrie-Mei Rubel shines as Wendy Darling, bringing a blend of motherly kindness and modern-day female strength to the role – her first big national tour. “I think the character of Wendy came quite naturally to me luckily,” says Rubel. “I will say, this was my first time on a large tour as a replacement. So, that was an entirely new experience for me that was very interesting and challenging. There was a certain balance of keeping certain aspects from the previous Wendy that the company had gotten accustomed to and agreed upon, as well as adding in my own ideas.”

With a family show, Rubel says it’s always important to consider how children will perceive the characters they see onstage. “It is incredibly important to me that little girls in the audience are presented with a Wendy that is strong, vulnerable, and ambitious; separate from her relationship to Peter and the Lost Boys,” says Rubel. “I am extremely happy with the decision in this new version by Larissa Fasthorse and Lonny Price, that Wendy participates in the fights, has her own song, and has hopes and dreams that are not intertwined with the men in the story.”

While some adult viewers – especially the seasoned theatre-goers – might find certain aspects less nuanced than they might be used to, the overall magic, spectacle, and updated storytelling make it a highly enjoyable and memorable experience for families. 

“Peter Pan is a timeless story that has something for everyone,” says Maldonado. “From Peter’s first entrance throughout the show, audiences will enjoy the adventure through Neverland and back again. The magic of flight and the idea that we all have that inner child inside of us that never wanted to grow up – this show allows everyone to get away from the everyday and become a child again, if just for two hours and fifteen minutes for one night.”

The use of haze, flashing lights, and confetti effects further enhances the theatricality, ensuring a truly immersive journey to the second star to the right. “Come out and see us in Neverland!,” says Maldonado.