THE PLAY: Playwright J. M. Barrie befriends a widow and her 4 sons, who become the inspiration for his play “Peter Pan.”

 

THE PRODUCTION: The most impressive feature of this production is the whimsical staging. With imaginative choreography, clever bits and cheery energy, every musical number is thoroughly delightful. The happy pacing only slows during the serious solos. Otherwise, the dialogue and direction make it chipper fun. The actors are uniformly strong with good voices and sharp comic timing. Even though there are 4 boys in the cast (and their “We’re All Made of Stars” is one of the show’s highlights), this isn’t really a children’s show. Young audiences will enjoy the big numbers, but the solos and duets might lose their attention. The set starts with attractive, period-influenced picture-book flats and is augmented by full-stage projections that boost the visuals with a dazzling contemporary style. Running time: 2:30 (Note: The evening curtain is 7:30)

 

THE POINT:  It’s fitting that this story of creativity and love is given a bright, inventive, sometimes magical production.

 

(4.5 / 5)

 

Broadway in Richmond at the Altria Theatre thru 2/4