A Neverland Festival

    Lately, I find myself contemplating a great many things from my childhood. Old dreams, aspirations, and other innocent fascinations that make being a child so wonderfully delightful. I find it strange that I am now in my mid to upper twenties and feel as if I have forgotten or lost something along the road to adulthood. With burgeoning financial responsibilities, household maintenance, and other stresses associated with living in a heavily technological era where a push of a button can lead to complete social disaster. Albeit, the perils of modern adult life are drastically different from those that existed a hundred years ago. Things like cholera, typhoid, plague, and lack of water treatment facilities are things of the past. In today's world, we have to concern ourselves with finding Health Insurance, funding a retirement plan, and finding quality education in a country that refuses to spend money to support it. Sigh, to be a child again and not have concern of these pressing matters. The life of a child is one that should be filled with fun, joy, and adventure. Much like that of Peter Pan.
    100 years ago, an English fellow by the name of Jim Barrie wrote a delightful tale of a boy who lived in a world known as Neverland. Here he resides with his youthful companions known as "The Lost Boys", and a foul-mouthed fairy by the name of Tinkerbell. Together they embark on adventures against Indians, Pirates, and mermaids. In this present time, this beloved children's classic has been brought to the stage in a brand new 360 degree venue at the Chicago Tribune's Freedom Center. With promotional assistance from Broadway in Chicago, Peter Pan Live is a must see family event.
    Presented by Three-Sixty, Peter Pan Live rehashes Jim Barrie's epic tale in a way never seen before. Utilizing state-of-the-art 3D rendered projections, and high flying acrobatics, this show sets the stage for both children and adults to be delighted and amazed. Never before have I seen such unique use of multimedia performances. From slow-motion sword fighting to exotic dancing from Tiger Lily you will be glad you saw this show.
    For it to be a 360 degree performance, the staging probably could have been utilized in a slightly more efficient manner, but no one will feel completely left out of the action. The twenty minute intermission was more than adequate and the outdoor set-up provided plenty of concessions, and activities for adults and children to take part of. I sincerely hope the The Tribune's Freedom Center continues to house other imaginative shows like Peter Pan for years to come.

Rating: 4 (Maximum of 5)