BWW Reviews: PETER PAN, JR. in Bridgeport

A lot of people have had their hands in creating Peter Pan, Jr., and the result is a wonderful show for the children. Based on the 1904 J.M. Barrie and 1953 Disney film, Peter Pan, Jr. streamlines a lot of the story and songs of the productions with which most adults are familiar. The most glaring omissions are the songs, "I'm Flying" and "I Won't Grow Up" and the barely visible strings of the flying effects. But this production at the Downtown Cabaret Children's Theatre more than make up for that. And, after all, most of the kids won't know what they missed, and will enjoy the show anyway.

Although recent film productions have cast the lead as a boy, the standard Broadway productions have traditionally cast women (Mary Martin, Sandy Duncan, Cathy Rigby and, most recently, Allison Williams). This production featured Ryan Marcone as Peter and Chelsea Dacey as a human sized Tinkerbell. That was a good casting decision because it underscored the jealousy Tinkerbell felt when Peter met Wendy (Abby Root). (Hey, live theatre is a wonderful way to help kids learn about feelings and realize that they are not alone. It's not just about sheer entertainment or getting them away from electronics.) The rest of the cast was terrific, with Jonathan David and Timothy Sullivan as Wendy's brothers, Michael and John, Ryan O'Neill as Smee, Emma LaPlace as Nana and the Crocodile, and Ashley DePascale winningly playing the small roles of Mrs. Darling and Tiger Lily. The ensembles of Pirates and Indians (Jason Parry, Everton Ricketts, Rene Ragan and Jackson Gallati) and Lost Boys and Fairies (Abigail Lonergan, Emma Cenholt-Hauland, Elle Faiga, Julia Papelo, Genevieve Horne and Mia Cenhollt-Hauland) were stronger than most groups. A few of the kids in the ensemble have appeared in previous shows at Downtown Cabaret Children's Theatre, and they are performing better than ever under Frank Root's direction and choreography. Lance Anthony steals the show as Captain Hook. (He also plays Mr. Darling.) Anthony never disappoints in his many roles at Downtown Cabaret Children's Theatre, and these dual roles could have been written for him. His Captain Cook is multi-dimensional, and even sympathetic at times. Kudos also to Eli Newsom for his musical direction, to Lesley Neilson Bowman and Axel Hammerman for their scenic and lighting design. There are no strings needed for the show Peter Pan Jr., but they managed to give a lovely illusion that Peter, Wendy, Michael and John managed to fly from the nursery to Neverland.

Peter Pan Jr. runs through December 28. Make sure this is part of your family's holiday events. House manager Vicki Rinkerman found some nifty light up fairy dust wands which make that you can buy before the show or during intermission for your kids now, or if you can hide them, as stocking stuffers. For more information, call 203-576-1636. The Downtown Cabaret is located at 263 Golden Hill Street in Bridgeport with secured parking near the theatre. http://dtcab.com/stage/kids-stage. Once you've seen this show, you will want to see Finding Neverland on Broadway.

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