Review: NBC's Peter Pan Live

On December 4, NBC aired their live production of J.M. Barrie’s beloved Peter Pan.  With a star-studded cast, the show had potential to be spectacular.  However, while the production was fine, it could have used a pinch more fairy dust to soar above expectations.

The story follows three British children, Wendy, Michael and John Darling, as they fly with Peter Pan, a pretentious boy who refuses to grow up, to Neverland, where adventure lurks around every corner.  Peter and his new friends ban together with the lost boys and Tiger Lilly’s tribe of Indians to bring down the scheming Captain Hook and his gang of pirates.

The biggest disappointment was Allison Williams, who portrayed the principle role of Peter Pan.  While the Girls star sang well, she lacked presence; she failed to express the childlike nature of Peter, which Mary Martin, who originated the role in 1956, embodied.  Williams’ performance did get better as the production progressed, she never quite hit the mark.

With a budget of over $10 million dollars, the production team decided to do the show big by avoiding a traditional stage setting that allowed for large set pieces and more room for dynamic camera moves. While the idea was good, it wasn’t very well implemented.  Neverland was too bright, too big and too cluttered.

Also, the all-too-visible cord that hoisted Peter into the air every time he flew shattered the whole illusion.

The show wasn’t all bad, though.  The choreography was amped up and more intricate, and several new songs were added to the score to showcase the show’s talent.

Speaking of talent, Peter Pan, in general, had an incredible cast.  For example, while her part was small, Broadway alum Kelli O’Hara, who played Mrs. Darling, graced the stage with her years of experience and sang beautifully.

Christian Borle, alum of last year’s NBC production of The Sound of Music, was the comedic relief of Peter Pan as Mr. Smee, Hook’s right hand man.

Lastly, up-and-coming actress Taylor Louderman stole the show with her portrayal of Wendy Darling.  She was genuine, innocent, and full of grace.  Out of the entire cast of characters, Wendy was the most believable.

The full NBC production can be accessed on Hulu, Amazon Prime Instant Video and on DVD.  Fly to Neverland today!