Peter Pan Pantomime at New Victoria Theatre, Woking – a review

Last night we were invited* to the press night of Peter Pan at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking.

We have been going to the pantomime in Woking since the boys were little and always look forward to it as one of the highlights of the festive season.  This year brings the return of Peter Pan, J M Barrie’s magical story of the boy who never grew up.

*I received some of our tickets for Peter Pan at New Victoria Theatre, Woking in return for this review. All opinions are my own.

The show kicks off in the Darling’s nursery, where we meet Wendy Darling, played by Chloe Riley, her two young brothers and gorgeous dog, Nana.

Shortly afterwards, they are joined by Peter Pan and his best friend, Tinkerbell.  Archie Durrant puts on an energetic performance as Peter Pan, as he embarks on his adventures in Neverland.  Georgia Brierley-Smith plays Tinkerbell, the much-loved fairy, who seamlessly skates her way through the show.  Georgia has an incredible voice, which carries across the auditorium.

Next, we meet Paul Chuckle who brings a whole lot of silliness to the show.  He plays Mr Starkey, one of Captain Hook’s pirate crew.  Mr Starkey is a witless character, who charms the audience with his foolishness.

Strictly fans will love the big star of the show,  Anton du Beke, the light-footed judge from the famous BBC talent competition.  Anton plays Mr Smee, another of Hook’s crewmen aboard the Jolly Rodger.  Du Beke gleefully dances his way throughout the panto, even donning top hat and tails in one scene.

Of course, no pantomime is complete without a villain, which is where Captain Hook comes in.  Played by Bob Harms, Hook is warmly welcomed by boos and hisses every time he enters the stage.

One of the most favourite characters was Nigel Ellacott, as the panto dame, Mrs Smee.  Mrs Smee dazzles the audience with her collection of bright and wacky costumes.  Little kids were in fits of giggles as she appeared wearing a picnic basket, a bouncy ball, and even a deckchair.

Finally, we saw a few familiar routines and games which we enjoy every year at the panto.  The Twelve Days of Christmas always gets a few laughs as the toilet roll flies into the crowd and who can resist a pie in the face?

Overall, the panto had an enthusiastic, professional cast, who delivered the story well.  There was adult humour and innuendo which flew over the heads of the little ones, who were laughing anyway.  The panto succeeded in providing an evening of light entertainment with a festive feel.