Theatre

Our guide to Peter Pan at the Olivier Theatre

Presented at the National Theatre, Peter Pan is now open in London. If you’re interested in heading down, we’ve pulled together all the information you’re going to need to make the most of your trip.

What’s Peter Pan all about, then?
This is the latest stage adaptation of JM Barrie’s famous tale to hit London. Just in case you don’t know the story, forever young Peter Pan loses his shadow whilst on a visit to the city, which leads him to meeting Wendy who helps him re-attach it. Peter invites Wendy to his fantastical home, Neverland, where they encounter many colourful characters, including Tinker Bell and Captain Hook.

What makes this one so special?
The production is directed by Sally Cookson, who recently made her mark with the brilliant Jane Eyre. The high-flying extravaganza has moved to the Oliver Theatre from a sell-out run at Bristol’s Old Vic.

What are the critics saying?
The Guardian has judged the play “unforgettable”, as well as “delightful” and “magic”. Purveyors of inclusive activities Mumsnet has named it “must see family entertainment”. The praise continues across the board. “Brimful of invention, innovation and flying,” says the Evening Standard, with Time Out adding: “A rip-roaring adventure. Sally Cookson’s adaptation soars.”

The Stag notes Peter Pan as “wonderfully theatrical”, with The Times praising Anna Francolini as “absolutely brilliant”. The Financial Times has called it “masses of fun”, with The Independent warmly recommending the production. In its five star review, the Radio Times notes: “Spellbindingly imaginative. An edgy and dazzling production that lights up the National Theatre.”

What can you expect?
Here’s a number of production shots from Peter Pan to give you a taste.

Where and when is it showing?
Presented by the National Theatre, Peter Pan is showing at the Oliver Theatre in London’s West End. The production runs until 4 February 2017, and lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes including a 20 minute interval. The Olivier Theatre is located within the National Theatre on London’s Southbank.

How do you get there?
The National Theatre is located on Upper Ground, South Bank, London, SE1 9PX. To get there on the Underground, head to Waterloo or Southwark, or cross over the bridge from Embankment. On the main railway lines, Waterloo, Waterloo East and Charing Cross are all within 15 minutes walking distance from the Theatre.

There are a load of buses that cross Waterloo Bridge. All of these will take you close to the theatre: 1, 4, 26, 59, 68, 76, 139, 168, 171, 172, 176, 188, 243, 341, 521, X68.

77, 211, 507 and 381 will also get your nearby. 45, 63 and 100 stop at Blackfriars Bridge, a ten minute walk from the Theatre.

If you’re driving, there’s a car park under the National Theatre, accessed from Upper Ground.

What you can you get up to before and after the show?
The National Theatre itself is filled with restaurants, cafes and bars. There’s a huge selection of fine food, quick eats and drinks, both inside and out. If that isn’t enough, the Southbank has plenty of places to stop off for some quick food and drink overlooking the river.

How do you get tickets?
Tickets and full details, as ever, are available through Ticketmaster.co.uk.

For more on all things stage, check out our West End Theatre Guide.