Saturday, June 10, 6:30 p.m., Orcas Center

— from Susannah Weaver for Orcas Center —

The National Theatre production of Peter Pan is broadcast live to Orcas Center Saturday, June 10 at 6:30 pm. Tickets are very scarce for the production, broadcast live from the Old Vic Theatre in London –so for many the only way to see it now is via the NT Live broadcast. This rip-roaring adventure is both captivating and funny, with elements to delight and entertain both kids and parents. It’s must see family entertainment (broadcast is rated PG).

All children, except one, grow up. Captured live at the National Theatre, a recorded performance of JM Barrie’s much-loved tale screens in cinemas. When Peter Pan, leader of the Lost Boys, loses his shadow, headstrong Wendy helps him to reattach it. In return, she is invited to Neverland, where Tinker Bell the fairy, Tiger Lily and the vengeful Captain Hook await. A riot of magic, music, and make-believe ensues. A delight for children and adults alike, Sally Cookson (NT Live: Jane Eyre) directs this wondrously inventive production, a co-production with Bristol Old Vic Theatre.

The play is true to JM Barrie’s story, filled with all of his famous characters – Peter Pan, the Lost Boys, Captain Hook, the Pirates, the Mermaids, Tinkerbell, and Tiger Lily but some surprise twists make it a refreshing, new take. For instance, Captain Hook is played by a woman (doubling up with the character of Mrs. Darling). The Times raves, “Anna Francolini is absolutely brilliant as Captain Hook.”

“This female Hook really does have an evil streak,” says Radio Time. “She’s a very frightening creation in black wig and jeweled teeth, who thinks nothing of slaughtering a crew mate. It’s a clever piece of gender inversion that works supremely well. Then there’s Peter: clad in green suit and with panpipes dangling from his chest, Paul Hilton radiates charisma and evokes all the character’s playfulness, petulance, cruelty at times.” The play is energetic, full of life and heart-warming, whilst also addressing the poignancy of the themes of growing up. Evening Standard declares Peter Pan “brimful of invention, innovation and flying.” Get your tickets now for an evening of unforgettable magic.

Tickets for NT Live’s Peter Pan are $20, $15 for students, $2 off for Orcas Center members, and may be purchased at www.orcascenter.org or by calling 376-2281 ext. 1 or visiting the Orcas Center Box Office open Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 12-2 pm. $5 subsidized tickets available at the Box Office. For more information about Orcas Center’s 2017 season visit www.orcascenter.org.