Review by Barbie Davies of “Peter Pan” in Tockington Parish Hall performed by the Parish Players February 18.

IN THIS busy world, everyone likes a dose of Never Never Land. This week the Parish Players, in their musical version of “Peter Pan” took us there by means of the set, stage and technical crews’ ingenious flying mechanism, dream-like sets, lighting and effects. They are indeed a dream team of imagination and efficiency.

Whilst the melodies of this version of the original 1904 play by J.M. Barrie might not be the most interesting, Chloe Allsopp-Jones’ quartet brought the excellent arrangements to life with their expert verve and sensitivity.

They gave wonderful support to everyone on stage which resulted in confident and heart-felt singing.

Linda Evans’ experienced hand gave all the performers a real sense of the pantomime flavour, much panache, and a discipline which translated into a slick and infectiously enthusiastic production.

Sheer energy, attack and a sense of fun oozed from every performer.

The hard-working chorus of Pirates/Red Indians really entered into the spirit of each caricature, providing some very amusing moments, especially in the hands of Ray Hale and Richard Newley.

All the lost boys were an absolute delight with their total commitment to their parts, their fabulous facial expressions and wonderful singing. What talent there is for the future!

On the last night, after an arduous week, Niamh McBride still strong and crystal clear as Wendy, perfectly captured the “perfect little mother” adopting just the right amount of tongue in cheek capabilities – and what a super singing voice.

Hannah Clarke was a very convincing John – no mean feat for this generous young performer.

Theo Woodward made a very winning Michael by his obvious love of the part, while Peter Pan himself was beautifully played by Jake Woodward, who captured the freedom and joie de vivre of the role (on alternate evenings, the roles of Peter and Tinkerbell were played memorably by Timothy Mitchell and Isobel Lambie).

He too had a really strong and tuneful voice.

Evie Snadden delivered the difficult role of nearly good fairy, Tinkerbell, with real grace, mischief and perfect timing.

Of course every pantomime has its baddies. Phil Savage’s Captain Hook had the perfect balance of silliness and glory in the gory.

His arch-enemy (a most sleek crocodile) made many a swift slither across the stage causing many a giggle. Only Nana the nurse dog rivalled him, affectionately played by David Proud.

No wonder Mrs Darling, warmly performed by Lesley Clarke, was grateful for Nana’s help at that amusing moment when she and her husband (Phil Savage, after a quick change) stand surrounded by the boys who no longer want to be lost, but adopted by the Darlings.

Tockington Hall may only have a small stage (plus, on this occasion, a useful fore stage) but the impact is always big: whether in dance work (choreographed by Jill Harris), the colourful costumes by Cath Chappel, Felicity Hemmett and Helen Leicester, or the sense of magic which is created when a community works together.

That’s what makes folk really fly!