FINDING NEVERLAND
THE BUELL THEATRE: 12/20 – 1/1
The cast of "Finding Neverland"
“Finding
Neverland” is an unforgettable musical theatre experience.
It’s LOTS more fun than “Peter and the
Star Catcher.”
Both shows intend to be prequels to what will eventually become “Peter Pan.”
As my guest
for the evening said, “Finding Neverland” is to “Peter Pan” what “Wicked” is to
“The Wizard of Oz.” And she’s right. Everything in “Peter Pan” is fore ‘shadowed’
wondrously in James Graham’s book.
The tuneful music by Gary Barlow and catchy
lyrics by Eliot Kennedy are a complete delight.
Tony Award
winner Diane Paulus’ direction of “Finding Neverland” succeeds in delivering
the story of how J.M. Barrie was able to move from blocked playwright to one
who is on fire with inspiration with consummate skill.
Led
by Kevin Kern and Christine Dwyer, this exuberant cast creates a world of magic
and imagination that’s amazing. Mr. Kern originated the role of J.M.Barrie on
Broadway and now blesses Denver audiences with his superb acting and vocals.
Ms. Dwyer’s performance in the role of Sylvia Llewellyn Davies enchants.
On the
evening this reviewer was in attendance the Llewellyn Davies boys were played
by: Ben Kreiger (Peter), Finn Faulconer (George), Mitchell Wray (Jack) and
Jordan Cole(Michael.) Mr. Faulconer is from Colorado and has studied with the
Colorado Ballet. The performances given by these young men makes one wish to prophesy
successful stage careers for each and all of them.
Mia
Michaels’ bouncy choreography, which much of the time pops like punctuating
popcorn, lends itself wonderfully to the playful essence of the piece.
The
projection design by Jon Driscoll and Illusions by Paul Kieve run the gamut
from thrilling to sparkling transcendence! (Their work alone will transport
every theatregoer from the mundane world they just walked in from to that of the
awe-inspiring sublime one onstage!)
It’s a
scrum diddly musical theatre dessert for the holidays with a dollop of good old
fashioned sentiment!
For
tickets call 303-893-4000 or go online at denvercenter.org
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