For many, childhoods are painted with the vibrant colors of cinema, and mine was no exception. My father, a true film enthusiast, introduced me and my sister to a world of classic movies, from the comedic genius of Young Frankenstein to the noir depths of Double Indemnity. Among these cinematic treasures, a particular filmed stage production of Peter Pan, starring Mary Martin, from the early 1960s, captured our imaginations. We were utterly enchanted, replaying it endlessly, captivated by the boy who wouldn’t grow up and his adventures in Neverland. The ending, where Peter returns to find Wendy as an adult, was a point I perpetually avoided, wishing the story could last forever.
Years drifted by, and the memory of that Peter Pan movie faded somewhat into the background of my mind. However, this semester, as I began an internship at the Wittliff Collections, that nostalgic connection was unexpectedly rekindled. While cataloging the Jane Sumner Collection, I was immersed in Sumner’s journalistic work for The Dallas Morning News. One day, a microcassette labeled “Mary Martin” caught my eye. The name sparked a faint recognition, a whisper of familiarity. As I played the tape, it struck me – this was Mary Martin, the very actress who embodied Peter Pan in the film that had so defined my childhood!
Listening to the interview, a wave of joyful memories washed over me, recalling those cherished moments of watching the movie with my sister. One anecdote Mary Martin shared particularly resonated with me: she recounted being asked by a stranger in the street to “crow” like Peter Pan. Without hesitation, she obliged. Hearing her voice on the recording, filled with warmth and genuine delight as she spoke about the enduring positive impact of her role on generations of children, was truly heartwarming. This experience at the Wittliff Collections has been a profound moment in my journey as a Public History student at Texas State University, reaffirming my passion for archival work and the power of preserving cultural memories.
Mary Virginia Martin, born in Weatherford, Texas in 1913 and passing away in 1990, was more than just an actress; she was a Broadway luminary. A muse to the legendary Rodgers and Hammerstein, Martin originated iconic roles that continue to resonate in musical theater history. She first enchanted audiences as Nellie Forbush in South Pacific (1949) and then as Maria von Trapp in The Sound of Music (1959). Her contributions to the performing arts were recognized with a Kennedy Center Honor in 1989. Interestingly, she was also the mother of actor Larry Hagman, adding another layer to her multifaceted legacy in the entertainment world.
However, for many, Mary Martin will forever be synonymous with Peter Pan. She first played the role on Broadway, bringing J.M. Barrie’s timeless character to life with a unique blend of boyish charm and theatrical flair. The Broadway production was so successful that it was filmed for television on multiple occasions in 1955, 1956, and 1960, allowing families across America to experience the magic of Peter Pan from their living rooms. These televised performances are the versions most fondly remembered and continue to be cherished today, embedding Mary Martin’s portrayal into the cultural consciousness as the definitive Peter Pan for generations.
The Jane Sumner interview offers a valuable glimpse into Mary Martin’s personality and her understanding of the impact of her work. Her anecdote about being asked to crow in the street perfectly encapsulates the affectionate connection people felt with her Peter Pan. It wasn’t just a role; it was a symbol of childhood joy and the power of imagination. The Wittliff Collections, by preserving these interviews and making them accessible, plays a crucial role in allowing us to rediscover and appreciate the contributions of artists like Mary Martin. For me, this chance encounter with a piece of entertainment history has not only been a nostalgic journey but also a powerful reminder of the importance of archives in keeping these magical legacies alive for future generations.
