It's time for my review of Peter Pan.I had been to annual Richmond Theatre pantomimes every year from 2008 (Peter Pan, starring Simon Callow and Bonnie Langford), and that had become a tradition up until 2015 (Cinderella, starring Hayley Mills). I was not the greatest fan of the 'Cinderella' 2015 panto, and therefore in the past few years I have instead gone to the London Palladium pantomimes (2016 and 2017), as well two of the Wimbledon Theatre pantomimes (2015 and 2017). However, this year Richmond Theatre has recruited Tony and Olivier Award Winner Robert Lindsay to lead this year's panto; an actor that I greatly admire. I had previously seen Lindsay in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels a total number of four times, so was excited to see him perform in this.
Making his pantomime debut, Robert Lindsay excels in the role of Captain Hook. Considering Lindsay has never really done anything like this throughout his career, it is interesting to see him put out of his comfort zone. He lights up the stage whenever he enters and his comedic timing is impeccable. The highlights of this production are undoubtedly Lindsay's several big musical numbers. Among these songs were "You've Got to Pick a Pirate to Two', 'The Pirate Walk' and a hilarious rendition of 'Can't Take My Eyes Off You', where Captain Hook attempts to seduce a Mermaid with his hook. The best number, however, is a brilliantly re-imagined version of 'Reviewing the Situation', where Hook contemplates becoming a politician.
At Robert Lindsay's side is Jon Clegg, in the role of Smee. As always, Clegg provided lots of laughter, performing a wide variety of excellent impersonations. Additionally, he had great chemistry with Lindsay, with the pair of them making a good team. Harry Francis also gives a stand-out performance as the titular character of Peter Pan. Francis has a great stage presence, and was a particularly skilled dancer.
Having been disappointed with the Richmond Pantomime in 2015, I am glad to say that Peter Pan exceeded my expectations. Whilst the pantomimes of Richmond Theatre are lacking in some of the magic and special effects of those at the London Palladium, it still provides Christmas-fueled fun for all of the family.
The featured star of Peter Pan is, drum roll please... ROBERT LINDSAY!
Despite being out of his comfort zone, Lindsay is exceptional. He provides laughter throughout, particularly throughout his asides to the audience. All of his musical numbers were outstanding and an overall joy to watch!
Now for my final verdict on Peter Pan. I give Peter Pan...
Whilst this pantomime does lack in the story department, its cast are utterly delightful, and therefore I have awarded Peter Pan with three stars!
Think it should have got a higher rating? Agree with my rating? Think it should have got a lower rating? If so comment below.
Thanks for reading!
-The Reviewer
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