Peter Pan

Flying in from the faraway world of Neverland is the beloved boy who refuses to grow up. The classic children’s story PETER PAN will be brought to life on the Auditorium stage February 26 & 27 as Peter and his friends face the challenges of growing up and, of course, defeating the infamous Captain Hook.

The musical opens to the Darling household set in London, where Wendy, John, and Michael play make-believe for their caring but strict parents. One night, Nana, the best nurse with four paws, spots a strange boy in the window. He reveals himself as Peter Pan, and with the help of his magical companion, Tinkerbell, he teaches the children how to fly. They embark on the journey of their lives to Neverland, where they meet the musical’s unforgettable characters: the mischievous Lost Boys, Tigerlily and her clan of clever Indians, and Captain Hook and his band of misfit pirates. But will the children stay in Neverland, living adventurous lives without rules, or will they decide to return to London and face adulthood in their parents’ home?

Based on James M. Barrie’s children’s stories The Little White Bird, Peter Pan in Kensington Garden, and Peter and Wendy, the first version of Peter Pan was performed as “Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn’t Grow Up” in 1904. For over a hundred years, many famous actresses, including Mary Martin and Maude Adams, have starred as the leading role in various productions of the classic story.

In 1989, Cathy Rigby began her tour with the two-time Emmy Award-winning and two-time Tony Award-nominated Peter Pan, and her name has been synonymous with it ever since. Now, she is back in action for a revival of the widely popular musical.

The Washington Post wrote, “Peter Pan sparkles with fairy dust! Rigby has mastered the singing, dancing and aerial shenanigans, but has also gotten to the core of the boy who wouldn’t grow up.”

Peter Pan remains a timeless classic that resonates with people of all ages. Young children enjoy its spectacle and fantasy, especially the thrill of flying. Older children identify with the characters and the splendid adventures Peter has with Captain Hook. And adults enjoy Peter Pan as it rekindles the magic of the first time they saw the play when they were children.

In addition to the cherished characters, Peter Pan’s timeless songs, including “I’m Flying” and “I Won’t Grow Up,” allow audience members to live and relive childhood fantasies as the IU Auditorium stage transforms into the magical world of Neverland.