Peter Pan – Theatrical Production at Thelma Gaylord PAC

Prepare to see the exciting tale of Peter Pan this spring at Thelma Gaylord PAT At Civic Center Music Hall in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Be sure to catch this tale this spring at Thelma Gaylord PAT At Civic Center Music Hall in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, with this Tuesday 18th March 2025 showing for as little as $166.

Origins

Based on the play by Sir James M. Barrie, this musical production has had several productions played on Broadway stages and live on national television. Original lyrics and music were created by Carolyn Leigh and Morris (Moose) Charlap, with further lyrics by Betty Comden, and Amanda Green, and more music by Jule Styne. This adaptation of the tale has an additional book by Larissa FastHorse, a Native American playwright who brought a modern depiction of Native Americans to the story.

Productions of the Peter Pan play by Barrie originated in 1904 with the original showing in London, and premiering on Broadway in New York in 1905. Critics felt there weren't enough songs, so in came Comden and Styne to create new music that would eventually become unforgettable staples in the production. The musical version of the 1911 novel adaptation was introduced in 1954 and ran with roaring success until 1955 when it stopped showing to create a version to show live on TV for NBC. With 65 million viewers across the nation, the show was undeniably successful and aired again in 1956 and 1960. Many reshowings aired over the years, with new productions airing on television in 2000 and 2014.

Play

The tale of Peter Pan features a boy who never grew up and takes the Darling children to Neverland with his diva of a fairy, Tinker Bell. In this dreamy land, there are the Lost Boys who spend their days causing a ruckus and no-good pirates led by the evil Captain Hook. The Darling children enjoy their time with Peter Pan, but Wendy shows some maturity and becomes a mother figure to the motherless children of Neverland. Though the Darling children didn't want to grow up, but do begin missing their mother and feeling homesick, but not after Captain Hook causes problems!

Peter Pan is as relevant today as it was in 1904 when it was first presented in London. Children get to enjoy many years without responsibilities, but eventually must leave their childhoods behind. For any grown-ups wishing they could be a kid again, this thrilling production of a child-led adventure will give you a couple of hours of nostalgic bliss. Bring your children since they will also love this magical story about staying young and growing up.

Diversity

With the addition of Larissa FastHorse's novel, the Peter Pan story is reimagined for the next generation to include a more positive and accurate depiction of Native Americans, who were previously portrayed disrespectfully in earlier versions. With updated lyrics and music to portray the people more appropriately, everyone from all walks of life can enjoy this play and not feel marginalized, creating an inclusive and family-friendly tale we can all relate to.