Archive · 6 Nov 2025
Wendy and Peter Pan: A Lavish, Feminist Spin on the Classic Tale
Imagine Peter Pan, the boy who never grows up, but with a twist!
This new play imagines Wendy as a young girl who meets Peter and is taken to Neverland.
Instead of just having fun, Wendy finds herself in a world that's like a darker version of our own, where she has to take care of the 'lost boys.'
The play is praised for being very smart and exciting, with amazing flying scenes and swordfights.
However, some people think it might be a bit too grown-up and complicated for younger kids because it focuses a lot on serious ideas.
It has beautiful sets and a lively performance from the actors, but its new story might be a little confusing for some.
Overall, it's a grand and magical show with lots to think about.
Ella Hickson's adaptation of J.M. Barrie's 'Peter Pan' is described as a 'rollicking' and 'lavish family entertainment'.
The play offers a 'fascinating, feminist riff' on the original story, exploring psychological depths and casting Neverland as a 'dark echo' of the real world.
Critics are divided on its suitability for children, with some finding it 'more suited to misty-eyed adults' due to its heavy plot changes and 'fitful pace'.
Standout elements include spectacular flying sequences, swashbuckling swordfights, and Colin Richmond's 'brightest star' set designs.
Despite some perceived flaws in pacing and narrative tweaks, the production is noted for its 'intelligent, contemporary' take and 'on balance, magic'.
- Who
- Ella Hickson (playwright), Jonathan Munby (director), Hannah Saxby (Wendy), Daniel Krikler (Peter Pan), Toby Stephens (Mr Darling/Captain Hook), and the cast and crew.
- What
- A production of 'Wendy and Peter Pan', a new adaptation of J.M. Barrie's classic tale, featuring a feminist perspective and psychological depth.
- When
- Open for a limited run, ending November 22.
- Where
- The Barbican, London.
- Why
- To offer a contemporary, intelligent, and feminist reinterpretation of the classic Peter Pan story, exploring its psychological themes alongside traditional adventure elements.
Positive Reception
Critical Reception
Target Audience Suitability
Positive Reception
Praised as 'lavish family entertainment' with 'adventure and enchantment', despite some darker psychological depths.
Critical Reception
May be 'more suited to misty-eyed adults than actual kids' due to its dark themes and 'fitful pace'.
Adaptation's Strengths
Positive Reception
An 'intelligent, contemporary' take that delves into 'psychological depths' and offers 'plenty to mull over' for adults.
Critical Reception
Contains 'too many tweaks and distractions' that may not win over every child, with some changes handled 'lightly'.
- Playwright
- Ella Hickson
- Based on
- J.M. Barrie's Peter Pan
- Venue
- The Barbican
- End Date
- November 22
- Key Cast
- Hannah Saxby (Wendy), Daniel Krikler (Peter Pan), Toby Stephens (Mr Darling/Captain Hook)
- Director
- Jonathan Munby