newjerseynewsroom.com

BY STUART DUNCAN

NEWJERSEYNEWSROOM.COM

N.J. THEATER REVIEW

Some stories go on and on. Take "Peter Pan," for instance. Written more than a century ago (published in 1904) through the years the J.M. Barrie novel has been a vehicle for dozens of stage actresses, movies in cartoon form and, of course, a stage musical (who an ever forget Mary Martin?) Later this season, Paper Mill Playhouse will revive the musical with its own production (not for the first time.) Robert Johanson played the title role until he broke down physically and let the understudy handle the role.

But right now, The Villagers Theatre in Somerset is staging a very fine production (also not the first time for an attempt.) The Villagers is a group of some years — in fact it is celebrating its 50th season. The very last time they tried to do "Pan," it was quite a challenge (they attempted to use their own stage crew to do the "flying," not wanting to pay for the guys from Foy. Turns out an ex was handling the wires for the lead and flew her right into the side wall. And knocked her gaga.

Not this time. Director Matthew Di Carlo has brought in the Foy Crew from Las Vegas. And just as importantly, he has surrounded himself with real talent — Jillian Kimberlin to do the choreography; Matt Carlsen to handle the sound effects; Ed Pearson for the lighting; Hilary Pearson to work the Tinkerbell effects and a terrific cast, including a super Pan (Jessica Berger who travels an hour and twenty minutes each way from Brick Township for rehearsals and the show.)

The result is a show brisk and precise, clean and spirited. Exactly the way Barrie wrote it so the imagination could take over

The cast is enthusiastic. Ms. Berger plays the role with a littlebit of feist tucked into every move, very boyish, determined not to grow up, but loyal and courageous. It makes the final scene not only crisp and appealing, but very poignant as well. Lauren Renahan is a delicious Wendy, gentle and caring. Alec Richards is a fine John, with just the right touch of British reserve. Alison Byrne, a Villager veteran is a perfect Mrs. Darling, warm and understanding.

David Ellis doubles as Mr. Darling and Capt. Hook (as has been done for almost the entire century) and plays both roles with great gusto. From the moment he bellows: "A little less noise there" you know you are in good hands. As Tiger Lily, Jenna Zielinski looks about 12 years old, but since the program insists she has been dancing 17 years, she must indeed be older.

And the aforementioned Jessica Berger has it all — a strong, confident voice, an athletic build, both on the ground and aloft and, best of all, a real crow, the best in many years. We'll have to wait until early June to see what Paper Mill has in store.

"Peter Pan" continues at The Villagers Theatre through Feb. 14.