This festive season, Theatre Peckham is presenting a unique twist on a childhood classic with PAN! Peter’s Come Out To Play. Running from December 6 to 23, the show has been created by actor and writer Geoff Aymer and Suzann McLean MBE, the artistic director of Theatre Peckham.
In an interview with the South London Press, Ms. McLean emphasized the importance of bringing the vibrancy of Camberwell and Peckham onto the stage to celebrate the community. She highlighted the significance of representation in theater to widen the understanding of who theater is for.
Based on J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan, PAN! incorporates original music by British Composer Jordan Xavier and new book and lyrics by Geoff Aymer. The show sets Neverland on a tropical isle and incorporates the steel pan into the music, giving a Caribbean twist to the classic story.
In this reimagined version, Peter Pan hails from Camberwell, plays the Steel Pan, and flies to Neverland, a mystical Caribbean Island. The energetic script is complemented by an upbeat music score featuring reggae, soca, and old school soul.
Ms. McLean, who joined Theatre Peckham in 2018, has directed various productions and describes the theater as a perfect fit for her work with young artists. She founded the Young and Talented School of Stage and Screen to provide opportunities for young people in the creative industry.
Ms. McLean emphasizes the importance of introducing young people to the arts early on, stating that it can shape their lifelong relationship with creativity. She believes that the arts should be accessible to everyone and that representation on stage is crucial for inspiring the next generation of performers.
Having been introduced to the arts at a young age, Ms. McLean understands the impact of seeing oneself represented on stage. She acknowledges the challenges she faced as a young black female in the industry but is passionate about showing that individuals do not need to change who they are to succeed.
For her contributions to the arts, Ms. McLean has received several awards and honors, including an MBE in the 2023 King’s Birthday Honours. PAN! Peter’s Come Out To Play promises to be a delightful and culturally rich experience for audiences of all ages.
For more information and tickets to PAN! Peter’s Come Out To Play, visit the Theatre Peckham website. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this magical twist on a classic tale brought to life on stage.
