DANZ QUARTERLY Issue 18
January, February, March 2010
REVIEW
Peter Pan
Royal New Zealand Ballet
Vector Wellington Orchestra
St James Theatre, Wellington
October 30 2009
Reviewed by Ann Hunt
The timeless story of Peter Pan has been brought enchantingly to life by choreographer Russell Kerr, assisted by Toby Behan. Adding to the magic is the vibrant, cinematic score by Philip Norman, splendidly played by the Vector Wellington Orchestra under the vigorous baton of Kenneth Young.
The scenario is very faithful to Barrie’s book, with the exception of Nanny, who is here portrayed as a real person, (and very well too by Maree White,) instead of as a dog.
The magnificent sets and costumes by Kristian Fredrikson, (which deserve to be on permanent display)and the very able lighting design by Jon Buswell, all contribute to the evening’s magic. Or perhaps it was that extra sprinkling of fairy dust that transported the audience...
The Company certainly sparkled. Michael Braun, as Peter Pan, shone in the best performance of his career. Boyish, energetic, full of dash and derring-do, he used his excellent elevation and batterie to great effect.
He was well matched by the diminutive Tonia Looker as Tinkerbell. She is everything one imagines the fairy to be – mercurial, feisty, and capable of wickedness if the mood takes her. This young dancer is a talent to watch. (But please remove the miner’s light from her head-dress – she does not need it.)
Captain Hook is played to the bone by the ageless Sir John Trimmer; he milks the role for all it is worth – wickedly wonderful.
Shannon Dawson is excellent as his sidekick Smee - the perfect foil for Hook.
And talking of perfect, Katie Hurst-Saxon as Wendy is just that. Sweet, motherly and strong, she projects a wonderful innocence that is at the heart of the book.
As Tiger Lily, Abigail Boyle is very imperious and staunch, but lacks the earthy quality that is an intrinsic part of the role.
Adorably chubby and energetic, the Lost Boys resembled a gang of puppies tumbling over each other in their excitement.
The only scene that is problematic is Scene Two, the Flight. It is a great dance opportunity, but the costumes with their different periods sit oddly within the scenario and they verge on the crass. Antonia Hewitt stood out as a very fluid and graceful Dark.
And please, let us saviour the final poignant moment as the Darling family are re-united. Do not lower the curtain so swiftly that we do not see Peter look longingly through their window. It is worth waiting for.
|
