Expert Review: A Fresh Take on a Timeless Tale

4.6
★★★★★

Expert Rating

The Verdict

Wendy and Peter Pan is a breathtaking reimagining that gives voice and agency to one of literature's most overlooked heroines. This production combines spectacular aerial choreography with emotional depth, creating a theatrical experience that honors the original while offering fresh perspectives on growing up, imagination, and the courage to forge your own path.

What Makes It Special

  • Wendy's Perspective: A brilliant shift in focus that transforms Wendy from passive observer to active hero, exploring her own journey of self-discovery.
  • Breathtaking Flying: Spectacular aerial sequences that truly make audiences believe in the magic of flight, enhanced by cutting-edge stage technology.
  • Barbican Excellence: World-class production values with innovative staging that maximizes the Barbican Theatre's exceptional acoustics and space.
  • Universal Themes: Explores growing up, family dynamics, and finding your own voice with surprising emotional resonance.

Perfect For

Families with children 5+, fans of innovative theatre, anyone who loves the Peter Pan story, and theatre enthusiasts seeking spectacular staging combined with meaningful storytelling.

Everything You Need to Know

The Story from Wendy's View

This reimagining places Wendy Darling at the center of the beloved tale. Rather than simply being swept along by Peter Pan's adventures, Wendy becomes the driving force of her own story, questioning the world around her and ultimately choosing her own destiny between the responsibilities of growing up and the allure of eternal childhood.

What to Expect

  • Wendy as the protagonist with agency and her own character arc
  • Spectacular flying sequences that capture the magic of Neverland
  • The Darling family nursery transforming into magical worlds
  • Encounters with Lost Boys, pirates, and fairies
  • Themes of growing up, identity, and choosing your own path
  • A fresh perspective on a timeless story

Spectacular Staging

  • Flying Technology: State-of-the-art aerial choreography that brings the magic of flight to life with safety and artistry
  • Set Transformation: The Barbican stage transforms from the Darling nursery to Neverland's magical landscapes
  • Projection Design: Innovative use of projections creates immersive environments from London rooftops to pirate ships
  • Sound Design: The Barbican's exceptional acoustics enhance the magical atmosphere
  • Costume Design: From Victorian nightgowns to pirate costumes to fairy wings
  • Lighting: Creates the wonder of Neverland and the intimacy of the nursery

Technical Excellence: The production combines traditional theatrical magic with modern technology to create an experience that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Practical Information

Show Times

  • Tuesday - Thursday: 7:30pm
  • Friday: 7:30pm
  • Saturday: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Sunday: 3:00pm
  • Monday: No performances

Getting There

  • Underground: Barbican (2 min walk), Moorgate (8 min)
  • Alternative: St Paul's (10 min walk)
  • Bus: Multiple routes to Barbican Centre
  • Location: Part of the Barbican Centre complex
  • Parking: Barbican Centre car park available

Barbican Theatre Information

  • Opened in 1982 as part of the Barbican Centre
  • Capacity: 1,166 seats across three levels
  • Fully accessible venue with excellent facilities
  • Renowned for exceptional acoustics
  • Multiple bars and restaurants in the complex
  • Part of Europe's largest arts centre