Peter Pan – Theatrical Production at William H. Mortensen Hall

Get excited to see the exciting story of Peter Pan this winter at Mortensen Hall at Bushnell Theatre in Hartford, Connecticut. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure this winter at Mortensen Hall at Bushnell Theatre in Hartford, Connecticut, with this Friday 7th February 2025 showing for as little as $72.

Origins

adapted from the play by Sir James M. Barrie, this musical show has had several versions played on Broadway stages and live on national television. Original lyrics and showtunes were produced by Carolyn Leigh and Morris (Moose) Charlap, with further lyrics by Betty Comden, and Amanda Green, and additional music by Jule Styne. This retelling of the story has an additional book by Larissa FastHorse, a Native American playwright who brought a modern depiction of Native Americans to the story.

Productions of the Peter Pan play by Barrie originated in 1904 with the original showing in London, and debuting on Broadway in New York in 1905. Critics felt the show lacked music, so in came Comden and Styne to create new songs that would eventually become timeless staples in the production. The musical version of the 1911 novel adaptation was introduced in 1954 and ran with top-rated success until 1955 when it stopped showing to create a version to air on NBC. With 65 million viewers across the country, the show was an instant hit and aired again in 1956 and 1960. Many reshowings aired over the years, with new productions airing on television in 2000 and 2014.

Play

The Peter Pan story is about a boy who never grew up and takes the Darling children to Neverland with his diva of a fairy, Tinker Bell. In this dreamy land, there are the Lost Boys who perpetually enjoy childhood and dastardly pirates led by the evil Captain Hook. The Darling children enjoy their time with Peter Pan, but Wendy grows up a little and becomes a mother figure to the motherless children of Neverland. Though the Darling adventurers didn't want to grow up, but do begin missing their mother and feeling homesick, but not after Captain Hook stirs up trouble!

This gripping tale is as relevant today as it was in 1904 when it was first staged in London. Children get to enjoy many years without responsibilities, but eventually must join adults in the real world. For any grown-ups wishing they could go back in time, this wonderful production of a parentless adventure will give you a couple of hours of nostalgic bliss. Bring your children since they will also love this whimsical story about relishing in the carefree days and saying goodbye to childhood.

Diversity

Inspired by Larissa FastHorse's novel, the classic story is reimagined for modern audiences to include a more mindful and respectful depiction of Native Americans, who were formerly portrayed as antagonists in earlier versions. With updated language and music to portray the people more fairly, everyone from all walks of life can enjoy this play and not feel misrepresented, creating an inclusive and family-friendly tale we can all relate to.