Behind the scenes at Peter Pan

Director Sally Cookson will bring her imaginative take on the classic tale of Peter, Wendy and the Lost Boys to the National Theatre this month.

Madeleine Worrall (Wendy) rehearsing for Peter Pan (c) Steve Tanner
Madeleine Worrall (Wendy) rehearsing for Peter Pan (c) Steve Tanner

Following a critically acclaimed run at Bristol Old Vic, Peter Pan will open in the Olivier Theatre on 17 November.

John Leader (Ensemble) and Toby Olié (Puppetry Designer and Director) in rehearsal for Peter Pan (c) Steve Tanner
John Leader (Ensemble) and Toby Olié (Puppetry Designer and Director) in rehearsal for Peter Pan (c) Steve Tanner

The show features Anna Francolini as both Captain Hook and Mrs Darling – in a decision that reflects the double casting originally intended by Pan creator JM Barrie.

A blast of mischief and music, the production portrays the magic and pain of growing up.

Jessica Temple (Ensemble) Phoebe Fildes (Ensemble) and Dan Wheeler (Ensemble) rehearse Peter Pan (c) Steve Tanner
Jessica Temple (Ensemble) Phoebe Fildes (Ensemble) and Dan Wheeler (Ensemble) rehearse Peter Pan (c) Steve Tanner

The cast also includes Saikat Ahamed, Suzanne Ahmet, Marc Antolin, Lois Chimimba, Laura Cubitt, Phoebe Fildes, Felix Hayes, Paul Hilton, John Leader, Amaka Okafor, John Pfumojena, Jessica Temple, Dan Wheeler and Madeleine Worrall.

Benji Bower (Music) in rehearsal for Peter Pan (c) Steve Tanner
Benji Bower (Music) in rehearsal for Peter Pan (c) Steve Tanner

Dramaturgy comes from Mike Akers, with set design by Michael Vale and costume design by Katie Sykes.