BWW Reviews: Cathy Rigby Flies High in PETER PAN

Cathy Rigby has been portraying classic children's character Peter Pan on and off since 1974.  The very thought that an actor could hold the same role across decades is astounding.  While not unheard of in the soap opera industry, for an actor to portray a character for more than a single year in theatre is a rarity.

Going into PETER PAN (now playing at the Majestic Theatre), I had many reservations.  I have never been able to wrap my mind around a mature woman playing a young boy.  I couldn't possibly imagine how such a thing would be fun, convincing, or enjoyable.  Much to my very welcomed surprise, PETER PAN did not live up to a single expecation I had.

Instead, I was continually proven wrong.  Cathy Rigby is clearly comfortable and at home as Peter Pan, the adolescent boy that refuses to grow up.  I was so surprised and impressed by Rigby that I almost forgot to pay attention to the rest of the show - almost!  PETER PAN is adorable and fun.  We're all familiar with the story of Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, Captain Hook, and the Lost Boys, and PETER PAN is a faithful interpretation of the classic following Peter's arrival at the nursery of Wendy, John, and Michael to their adventures in Neverland swordfighting villainous Captain Hook.

Of course, Peter Pan isn't Peter Pan unless he flies and the aerobatics in the show are by far the  most fun aspect.  Rigby clearly has so much fun flying around the stage (and over the audience!) that it's no wonder she's stuck with the role for so long.  I would, too, if I was her!  And I loved coming home to find fairydust in my hair.

PETER PAN is definitely a kid friendly show but not so much that the adults will be bored - not by any means.  You'll be silly if you miss this brief engagement at the Majestic Theatre.  PETER PAN is playing through December 9.  Tickets for PETER PAN start at $30 and are available by calling Ticketmaster at (800) 982.ARTS (2787), www.ticketmaster.com or at all Ticketmaster outlets including the Majestic Box Office.