Captain Hook, the notorious nemesis of Peter Pan, is a character that has captivated audiences for generations. From literature to film and stage, this flamboyant pirate captain, with his menacing hook and insatiable desire for revenge, embodies villainy with a dash of dark humor. Currently brought to life on stage at The National Theatre in a touring musical production of “Peter Pan,” actor Cody Garcia offers a fresh perspective on this iconic role, revealing the layers beneath the swashbuckling surface. This adaptation, crafted by playwright Larissa FastHorse and directed by Emmy Award winner Lonny Price, promises a contemporary take on the timeless tale, inviting audiences to reconsider the motivations and complexities of Captain Hook himself.
Captain Hook menacingly points his sword at Peter Pan as his pirate crew brandishes their swords in a theatrical scene from Peter Pan.
Embracing the Duality: Captain Hook and Mr. Darling
Cody Garcia steps into the formidable shoes – or rather, boots – of Captain Hook, and in a surprising twist, also portrays Mr. Darling, the father of Wendy, John, and Michael. This dual role, often unnoticed by audiences, is a deliberate choice that Garcia finds particularly compelling. “I love playing Mr. Darling because of Captain Hook,” Garcia explains, highlighting the intentional “dichotomy.” He sees Mr. Darling as a “busy, kind of like angry adult” whose demeanor subtly plants a seed in the children’s minds, suggesting a subconscious connection between this paternal figure and the looming pirate captain. This casting choice cleverly hints at a deeper psychological dimension within the narrative, blurring the lines between the familiar world of home and the fantastical realm of Neverland.
Method to the Mayhem: Getting into Character
Bringing Captain Hook to life requires more than just a hook and a pirate costume. For Garcia, physical and mental preparation are key to embodying such a dynamic role in a live theater setting. His pre-performance routine is rigorous: “I just make sure that my body is warm. I warm my body as much as I can. I always do, like, 100 jumping jacks and a bunch of pushups and all kinds of stuff so that I can be as alert and ready as I can be during rehearsals and on stage.” This commitment to physical readiness underscores the demanding nature of live performance and the need for an actor to be fully present and adaptable. Garcia emphasizes the importance of being “present and understand[ing] what we’re doing—like, understand[ing] the communal storytelling,” recognizing that “at the end of the day, it’s not about me. It’s about ‘Peter Pan’ and it’s about Lonnie’s vision and how all these people are working together.” This collaborative spirit and dedication to the collective vision of the production are essential elements of successful theatrical performance.
From Sympathy to Swashbuckling: Hook’s Evolving Appeal
While many might instinctively view Captain Hook as a purely villainous figure, Garcia reveals a childhood sympathy for the pirate. “Growing up, the mermaids were my favorite from ‘Peter Pan.’ But, Hook was definitely a character that I could sympathize with because he’s absolutely a victim here.” This perspective shifts the narrative, prompting a reconsideration of Hook’s motivations. Garcia reminds us of the infamous incident that defines Hook: “he was just playing with Peter one day, they would normally fight, and then Peter cut off his hand [and] fed it to a crocodile! So, now he rightfully wants revenge.” This recounting reframes Hook’s pursuit of Peter Pan not as mere malice, but as a quest for justified retribution. This nuanced understanding of Hook’s backstory adds depth to his villainy, making him a more compelling and less one-dimensional character. It’s this complexity that continues to make Captain Hook such an enduring figure in popular culture.
A Lifetime in Theater: Garcia’s Journey and Advice for Aspiring Actors
Cody Garcia’s portrayal of Captain Hook is rooted in a lifelong dedication to theater. “I’ve been doing theater my entire life. I feel like I started acting maybe when I was like 7 or 8, doing summer camps and stuff.” This early immersion in the world of performance laid the foundation for his successful career. Drawing upon his extensive experience, Garcia offers invaluable advice to young individuals eager to enter the theatrical realm: “Audition as much as you can. Take as many classes as you can. Start building a strong foundation.” He stresses the importance of consistent effort and learning, lamenting, “I wish I was taking a lot more classes when I was younger. I wish I had committed to the ones that I did take.” His practical guidance extends to actively seeking opportunities: “Audition as much as you can. Just get yourself out there. Get some experience.” Acknowledging the initial investment required, he notes, “When you’re starting out, you’re gonna have to pay for a lot of things—you have to pay for camps and classes and probably to participate in some troop shows, but getting out there and getting experience is one of the best things you can do.”
For parents supporting their children’s theatrical aspirations, Garcia recommends a holistic approach: “Enroll them in classes. Enroll them in dance classes, enroll them in acting classes and voice lessons. Then, I would pick a couple instruments.” He emphasizes patience and sustained support, stating, “It’s not going to happen overnight, and when I say that I don’t even know what ‘it’ is, but it’s absolutely something that can happen and is attainable as long as you’re supporting them.”
Conclusion: The Enduring Allure of Captain Hook
Cody Garcia’s insights into Captain Hook provide a fascinating glimpse into the character’s enduring appeal. More than just a villain, Hook is presented as a complex figure driven by understandable motivations, brought to life by an actor deeply committed to the craft of theater. This production of “Peter Pan” at The National Theatre offers families a chance to experience the magic of live theater and to rediscover the timeless story through a fresh, contemporary lens. For those seeking an engaging and thought-provoking theatrical experience, and for young aspiring actors seeking inspiration, “Peter Pan” and Cody Garcia’s portrayal of Captain Hook offer a treasure trove of delights. Check broadwayatthenational.com for showtimes and plan your family’s visit to witness this captivating character firsthand.
