Peter Pan – Theatrical Production at Orpheum Theatre

Prepare to see the exciting play of Peter Pan this winter at Orpheum Theatre in Omaha, Nebraska. Be sure to catch this tale this winter at Orpheum Theatre in Omaha, Nebraska, with this Friday 6th December 2024 showing for as little as $70.

Origins

Based on the play by Sir James M. Barrie, this musical performance has had several productions played on Broadway stages and live on TV. Original lyrics and music were written by Carolyn Leigh and Morris (Moose) Charlap, with further lyrics by Betty Comden, and Amanda Green, and more music by Jule Styne. This version of the story has an additional book by Larissa FastHorse, a Native American playwright who breathed new life into the story.

Stagings of the Peter Pan production by Barrie started in 1904 with the original showing in London, and debuting on Broadway in New York in 1905. Critics needed more songs, so in came Comden and Styne to create new songs that would go on to become unforgettable 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 show live on TV for NBC. With 65 million viewers across the country, the show was a smash hit and aired again in 1956 and 1960. Many rebroadcastings aired over the years, with new productions airing on television in 2000 and 2014.

Story

The Peter Pan tale focuses on a boy who never grew up and takes the Darling children to Neverland with his sassy fairy, Tinker Bell. In this fairytale-like land, there are the Lost Boys who perpetually enjoy childhood and evil 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 orphans of Neverland. Though the Darling adventurers didn't want to grow up, they soon begin missing their mother and grow eager to go back home, but not after Captain Hook throws a wrench in their plans!

The age-old story is as relevant today as it was in 1904 when it was first staged in London. Children get to focus on having fun, but eventually must join adults in the real world. For any grown-ups wishing they could be a kid again, this imaginative production of a parentless adventure will give you 2 hours 30mins of childhood again. Don't forget to bring the children along since they will also love this whimsical story about relishing in the carefree days and saying goodbye to childhood.

Diversity

With the addition of Larissa FastHorse's novel, the classic story is updated 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 appropriately, everyone from all walks of life can enjoy this play and not feel marginalized, creating an inclusive and family-friendly tale we can all enjoy.