‘Peter Pan’ flies into the 21st century at Threesixty Theatre
J.M. Barrie’s classic stage fantasy “Peter Pan” has been adapted in many ways — from the Broadway musical beloved by several generations, to the equally enduring Disney animated film, to ballets and countless live-action film and TV adaptations.
Now, the classic is going the high-tech, Cirque du Soleil route with “Peter Pan 360,” the new “immersive theatrical experience” that will begin its Houston run Sept. 8, in the Threesixty Theatre, a deluxe tent/ theater being set up in the parking lot of the Houston Chronicle building at 4747 U.S. 59. The production combines state-of-the-art technology and flying effects, elaborate puppetry, plus audience-engulfing 360-degree projections. And crucially — we’re assured — enough of Barrie’s original play, performed by live actors, to still be recognizable as “Peter Pan.”
First seen in London’s Kensington Gardens, the production will be making its Texas debut as part of its current North American tour.
The production is direct- ed by Thom Southerland, who has won acclaim for productions of “Parade,” “Titanic,” “Mack and Mabel” and other musicals at London’s Southwark Playhouse. Southerland and Tanya Ronder adapted this version from Barrie’s original. The production’s choreography, movement and acrobatic/ aerial effects have been created by Gypsy Snider, who devised the circus effects for the recent Tony-winning revival of “Pippin.” “Peter Pan 360” is produced by Charlie Burnell, whose Threesixty Productions originated the show in London, and Norton Herrick, who has been a co-producer of several recent Broadway productions, including the revivals of “Pippin” and Eugene O’Neill’s “Desire Under the Elms.
“Our intention has always been to remain faithful to the original story,” Burnell says, “while employing 21st century techniques to tell it. We’re delighted to bring this allnew production to North America to entertain a whole new audience.”
“This ‘Peter Pan’ is that rare opportunity to tell a legendary story with equal parts innovation and grandeur,” Herrick says. “Audiences can sit back and be transported to a magical place and time.”
“Peter Pan 360” is presented in Houston by Society for the Performing Arts and the Houston Chronicle. The engagement’s closing date is TBA; press information indicates the run will continue “through the fall.”
For tickets go to peterpan360.com or call 800-632-8113.