Peter Pan:  The Musical
By Comden, Green and Styles
Based on the story by J.M. Barrie
 
It could be said that a production of Peter Pan is only as good as the actress playing “the boy who wouldn’t grow up”
 
If so, that makes Pacific Repertory Theatre’s Peter Pan very good indeed.
 
New to the Carmel, CA production and indeed to Carmel in general, is Leisa Way, a Canadian musical comedy actress who tackles the role with verve and extremely spiky hair.  As one of the most boyish looking Pans that this review has seen, Way’s slight frame aids the illusion, as do her swagger and spunk.
 
A great voice doesn’t hurt either, and her rendering of familiar numbers like “I’ll Never Grow Up”, “I’ve Got to Crow” and “Neverland” instill new enthusiasm even in those who’ve heard them a few times before.”
 
- Kathryn McKenzie Nichols, The Monterey Herald, California

 
“The lead role of Pan, traditionally played by a woman is her performed by Canadian favourite, Leisa Way.   Ms. Way played “Wendy” to Cathy Rigby’s Pan during the U.S. tour, and she brings joy and spirit to this show.
 
Whether she’s dancing through the trees, hanging out with the Lost Boys, or flying through the sky, Way has a huge voice that never falters”.
              
- Beverly Hill Van Joolen, The Carmel Pine Cone, California
 
 

“And fly he does, thanks to a brilliantly upbeat performance by Leisa Way.  The role of Peter is physically demanding and Way, with a strong singing voice that allows her to belt out a song even while doing a cartwheel or swinging across the stage several metres high in the air, is more than up for the challenge.
 
 A magical production”.
 
- Jane Sims, The London Free Press