Malvern-based People’s Light is celebrating its 50th anniversary with Peter Panto, a delightful original panto musical adaptation of Peter Pan, writes Frank Schierloh for The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

Panto, a beloved British holiday tradition, transforms familiar fairy tales or children’s stories with pop songs, humor, and lively audience participation. 

Peter Panto reimagines the classic tale of the Darling children meeting a strange boy at their window. In this version, Peter is their imaginative neighbor who encourages the children and their friends to embrace creativity. The famous Neverland exists only in the children’s minds, as Peter repeatedly challenges them with the question, “What if it was?” 

The show dazzles visually, with Rebecca Kanach’s stunning costumes along with Chris Haig’s imaginative set design. 

The cast delivers impressive performances, but the standout is Jamison Stern as Captain Hook. Stern strikes a perfect balance of camp, intimidation, and humor from his premature entrance to the final comedic bit. Courter Simmons, better known as drag alter ego Cacophony Daniels, also shines as Tinkerbell. 

Despite a somewhat confusing plot, the production’s brilliant costumes, eye-catching sets, and stellar acting make Peter Panto a thoroughly enjoyable celebration of creativity and holiday cheer. 

Read more about People’s Light celebrating their 50th anniversary of Peter Panto in The Philadelphia Inquirer. 

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