In a fresh and imaginative theatrical production, Wendy Darling from Peter Pan is not just a girl who sews shadows back on; she’s a budding scientist with dreams as big as Neverland. This reimagined Peter Pan, crafted by Lauren Gunderson, American Theatre’s Most Produced Playwright of 2019, presents Wendy as a bold and intelligent young woman, ready to chase adventure and knowledge among the stars. When Peter Pan appears at her window, it’s not just a flight to Neverland, but a leap into a world where her scientific curiosity and bravery are her greatest assets.
This adaptation at the Shakespeare Theatre Company highlights Wendy’s intellectual prowess and determination. Instead of simply being whisked away on an adventure, Wendy actively chooses to leave behind the constraints of finishing school. She embraces the unknown, facing fairies, mermaids, and even the infamous Captain Hook with a scientist’s mind and a courageous heart. Alongside Peter and the Lost Boys, Wendy discovers the true power of collaboration and standing up for justice, making her a compelling and inspiring figure for a new generation.
Playwright Lauren Gunderson is celebrated for creating strong female characters, and her version of Wendy Darling is no exception. Gunderson, known for works like Silent Sky and Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley, infuses this classic tale with modern sensibilities, ensuring Wendy is not just a participant but a driving force in the narrative. Director Alan Paul, STC Associate Artistic Director, brings this vision to life with “brilliant theatrical flair,” promising a production that delights both children and adults.
This production of Peter Pan ensures Wendy’s character resonates deeply with contemporary audiences, especially young girls. It showcases her intelligence, bravery, and leadership, proving that adventure isn’t just for boys, and that girls with big dreams can change the world – or at least, Neverland. For those seeking a Peter Pan story with a powerful and inspiring Wendy, this reimagined play is a must-see.
Reviews
“★★★★★…A must-see this holiday season.” –DC Theatre Scene
“CHARMING…SWEET AND SAUCY.” –The Washington Post
“DELIGHTFUL…Run, don’t walk to see this brilliant and happy production!” –The Georgetown Dish
“MAJESTICALLY MAGICAL…A marvelous amalgam of awesome spectacle and mindful meaning.” –DC Metro Theater Arts
“AWE-INSPIRING…Pure, decadent fun.” –BroadwayWorld
“MARVELOUS…A timely, holiday treat that families can see together.” –Washington Blade
“IMAGINATIVE…A buoyant and sparkling new reimagining of J.M. Barrie’s classic tale.” –MD Theatre Guide
“SPECTACULAR…This awe-filled production, with dazzling special effects, will cast a spell on a new generation.” –The Montgomery County Sentinel
“HIGHLY RECOMMENDED…A fantasy-filled production directed by the legendary Alan Paul.” –Whisk and Quill
“A LAVISH production for both the eyes and ears.” –Talkin’ Broadway
“MASTERFUL…A fantastic story and visual feast for all ages.” –K Street Magazine
“POWERFUL…A show full of giggles and memorable banter.” –Two Hours’ Traffic
“FUN…Director Alan Paul’s show is highly-entertaining for people of all ages.” –Theatre Travels
[accordion clicktoclose=true scroll=”160″ openfirst=”false”] [accordion-item title=”About the Playwright”] LAUREN M. GUNDERSON is the most produced playwright in America of 2019. The winner of the Lanford Wilson Award, the Steinberg/ATCA New Play Award and the Otis Guernsey New Voices Award, she is also a finalist for the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize and John Gassner Award for Playwriting, and a recipient of the Mellon Foundation’s 3-Year Residency with Marin Theatre Company. She studied Southern Literature and Drama at Emory University, and Dramatic Writing at NYU’s Tisch School where she was a Reynolds Fellow in Social Entrepreneurship. Her work has been commissioned, produced and developed at companies across the U.S., including South Cost Rep (Emilie, Silent Sky), The Kennedy Center (The Amazing Adventures of Dr. Wonderful And Her Dog!), Oregon Shakespeare Festival, The O’Neill, The Denver Center, San Francisco Playhouse, Marin Theatre, Synchronicity, Berkeley Rep, Shotgun Players, TheatreWorks, Crowded Fire and more. She co-authored Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberley with Margot Melcon, which was one of the most produced plays in America in 2017. Her work is published at Playscripts (I and You, Exit Pursued By A Bear, The Taming, and Toil And Trouble), Dramatists (The Revolutionists, The Book of Will, Silent Sky, Bauer, Miss Bennet) and Samuel French (Emilie). LaurenGunderson.com and @LalaTellsAStory [/accordion-item] [/accordion]
Recommended for audiences 5 years and older. Every patron must have a ticket. Babes in arms are not permitted in the theatre.
