Walnut Street's 'Peter Pan' Flies High!

From the clever colorful sets to the energetic choreography The Walnut Street Theater has captured the essence of magic in this delightful production. Set Designer Robert Andrew Kovach takes on the daunting task of converting the modest sized Walnut stage into a cozy nursery suitable for 3 kids, an oversized dog and a flying boy, to a great adventure in the island of Neverland, to a commanding pirate ship equipped with a huge visiting crocodile!

Director Marc Robin wisely inserts three 15 min. intermissions to accommodate a smooth transition of sets and perhaps a break time for the countless children destined to see this show during the holidays!

Adding to the success of this production is a stellar cast. Young Cary Michele Miller truly brings Peter Pan to life as perky and playful as can be while displaying quite a vocal range. Miller captured the Philly crowd with her portrayal of Carrie Pipperidge in Walnut's Street's production of Carousel. Cary told me after the show that she has worked with Cathy Rigby, who successfully revived the role in recent years, and is thrilled to play this role as well. Miller, jumps, tumbles, crows, sings and flies flawlessly.

Paul Schoeffler is no stranger to Capt. Hook either, having performed the silver hand scoundrel with Cathy Rigby in two extended runs during the National Tour and appears in the A&E Network presentation. Schoeffler shows us his slithery sneaky, pompous side of the attention mongering captain of a crew of wacky zany pirates who seem to steal the show with their clumsy antics. An outstanding performance is offered by Toni Elizabeth White who plays Tiger Lilly marking her debut as an Equity actor. It's hard to ignore the dancing talents of this lovely gal in motion.

Speaking of dancing, again director/choreographer Marc Robin puts together some of the most energetic, well executed stage movement. The familiar ensamble number "UGG- A-WUGG/POW- WOW POLKA" brings roars and extended applause from the crowd.

The "Flying by Foy" of Peter & the Darling children (who are all darling in this show as well) is impressive. This is always a highlight for children and those who are forced to "grow up" and of course always greatly anticipated with any revival of Peter Pan. Walnut's team again succeeds in creating the magic; fairy dust and all.

This production of Peter Pan indeed flies, crows and finds its "Happy Thought"; another sure hit for holiday season!

Musical based on the play by J.M. Barrie, lyrics by Carolyn Leigh, Betty Comden, Adolph Green, music by Mark Charlap, Jules Styne, directed and choreographed by Marc Robin, musical direction by Douglass G. Lutz, scenery by Robert Andrew Kovach, costumes by Colleen Grady, sound by Ryk Lewis, lighting by Paul Black.

Cast: Kristen Paulicelli (Wendy), Griffin Back (John), Dante Mignucci (Michael), Joey Abramowicz (Nana), Katie O'Shaughnessey (Mrs. Darling), Paul Schoeffler (Mr. Darling/Captain Hook), Cary Michele Miller (Peter Pan), Michael Daly (Smee), Toni Elizabeth White (Tiger Lily).

Playing at: Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St., Philadelphia. Through Sunday, Jan. 6. Tickets: $10 to $67.50. Information: 215-574-3550 or www.WalnutStreetTheatre.org

photo credits: Walnut Street Theater PR

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