Although Peter Pan, the fictional boy, hasn’t grown since he was introduced in J.M. Barrie’s 1904 play and subsequent 1911 novel, his theatrical legacy continues to evolve. Reconceived for the 21st century by London-based Threesixty Entertainment, this Peter Pan is a vivid, panoramic experience like no other, thanks to the liberal use of computer generated imagery, or CGI.
CGI is a method that uses virtual images and 3-D graphics to create lifelike special effects. Which, in this case, are brought to life via 12 projectors that create a virtual 360-degree set that is three times larger than an IMAX screen and the first created for a live theater piece. Another unique aspect of this production is that its “theater” will be a specially constructed 1,300-seat tent in Pemberton Place, adjacent to the Georgia Aquarium and the World of Coca-Cola
The play may look like nothing that’s come before, but the storyline is on track with the original.
“It’s the story of Peter Pan,” says co-producer Robert Butters. “So, for us, it’s really about telling that story for today. We are very true to the word of the play and we make sure that audiences of all ages can enjoy the show.”
Butters’ own children are a testament to the show’s ability to reach diverse age groups. His three-year-old son is particularly enamored with it and has started going around the house shirtless, acting like Captain Hook.
“He understands the story,” Butters explains. “[And] because it has such great imagery, it also allows him to connect to it. Even though the show for that age person is slightly longer than they’d [normally] sit through, they sit through it, mesmerized, because there’s something going on at all times.”
Threesixty’s Peter Pan first premiered on May 26, 2009, in London’s Kensington Gardens, where Barrie was inspired to write the tale more than a century ago. After a 16-week U.K. run, it premiered in the U.S. on April 27, 2010, in San Francisco, before moving on to the Orange County [Calif.] Performing Arts Center last fall.
Atlanta is only the third U.S. city to host the play, and the first on the East Coast. Shows run from Jan. 21 through March 20, in conjunction with weekly backstage “Into Neverland” tours. For more information, visit peterpantheshow.com/venues/atlanta/ or call 888-PPANTIX.
