Two beloved family classics — coincidentally, both involving children and flying — are coming to Seattle stages.
Here’s a chance to introduce your kids to live theater with stories similar (although not identical) to Disney films they may well have seen.
First off, a “reimagined” national touring production “Peter Pan” is in town for a short engagement at the Paramount Theatre from Aug. 21-25.
It’s the first show in the 2024-25 Broadway at The Paramount season.
The classic tale known for celebrating perpetual youth got an update from playwright Larissa FastHorse, who says:
“I am thrilled to be part of bringing PETER PAN to life for a new generation. If you loved this musical before, you will still see the show that enchanted you, while discovering a PETER PAN that everyone can enjoy, without harm, for many years to come.”
As reported elsewhere, FastHorse’s “without harm” statement refers to the removal of the song “Ugg-a-Wugg,” which was offensive in its portrayal of Native Americans. The story will otherwise feel familiar, except that indigenous characters will represent cultures from around the world, and female voices are stronger than in the original.
Of note: Nolan Almeida, 17, will play the iconic role of Peter Pan. Also to know: This performance will feature haze, flashing lights and confetti effects.
Dates and showtimes are:
- 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 21
- 1 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 22
- 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug.
- 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 24
- 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Sunday. Aug. 25
Later this fall, look for information about productions of “Wicked” (Nov. 6-Dec. 1) and “Back to the Future” (Dec. 10-22.)
More live theater: ‘Mary Poppins’
Just a few blocks away, the 5th Avenue Theatre has begun promoting its holiday production of “Mary Poppins.”
In case you need a refresher: “Precocious children Michael and Jane Banks have exhausted every nanny—that is, until Mary Poppins drops in on a strange breeze. Revel in the spectacle of this chimney-sweeping epic that sees them traverse the roofs of London to encounter colorful characters in a fantastically magical world.”
It will run Nov. 22-Dec. 22. If you’re planning a family outing, know that children under 4 will not be admitted.
Tickets are on sale now, and it’s not too late to save by subscribing to the full 2024-25 season, which also includes “The Last Five Years,” “Waitress,” “Parade,” “Bye Bye Birdie” and “After Midnight.” Also, groups of 10 or more people can buy tickets at a discount.
