Peter Pan: BBC Radio full-cast dramatisation (BBC Children's Classics)

fab traditional story with clear sound. kept in car and played constantly

Nice audio tape good for children. Classic story and don't have an issue with it!!!

Bought as a present and the recipient loved it.

Xmas present, I think my great nephew will love this

Since 1904, Peter Pan and his Neverland island have been part of our folklore. First through James Matthew Barrie’s play, then the various movie adaptations such as Walt Disney and Steven Spielberg’s excellent films. And also on the radio platform.Into this wonderful BBC Radio Drama Production. Which Dirk Maggs produced and directed in 1995 for BBC Radio 4. The story of the Boy Who Never Grew and flew away to NeverLand; another reality beyond the stars where visitors’ wildest dreams become reality. Pirates, Mermaids, lagoons, Apache Camps, etc. The dream of all children who want to escape our mundane banality. And in this adventure, the encounter between the Darlings (Wendy, John and Michael) and Peter who decided to invite them on the island. Giving them an amazing and timeless journey as they deal with the diabolical Captain Hook and his crew of pirates.Now in its adaptation, Dirk Maggs and Philip Glassborow had the idea of mentioning the events of Peter’s adventures in the Kensington Gardens; which is a storyline James Matthew Barrie wrote after making his play, but which wasn’t always presented in some of the movies and theatre shows I saw. To me, this narrative mention was a great idea as it further precised how Peter met fairies, developed the power to fly, and uncovered Neverland. As for the narrative of this radio play, the production was well structured. We get a proper introduction of the main characters, the reasons why the Darlings all wish to leave their family, and the understanding over which characters will get along or not with who. Though I wish there could have been at the end of the story a little mention of TinkerBell for at the end, she is supposed to have passed away since fairies do not age long.As for the chapters in Neverland, the director and dramatist have both given to the environment a great atmosphere. Through sound work, they rendered the magical mood and mystery of this location and its many creatures. And with the pirates, drama appears well in the air. Giving the show an exciting air for every listeners discovering the production, but also the legend of Peter Pan.Though unlike other adaptations, which might end with an air of bittersweet sadness, a beautiful sense of happiness arises as the character continues his adventures with a new companion to join his travels in Neverland.In sum, people who might not know anything about the original theatre play will understand quite clearly the story of Peter Pan they hear in this show. Through two hours which, separated in two chapters, people can enjoy in two separate listens. Giving the story a break for younger listeners, but also for those who prefer to give more time for their enjoyment of a radio show.Regarding the actors, I enjoyed discovering new figures such as Toyah Willcox who did a great Peter Pan, June Whitfield as the wise Mrs. Darling, and Georgina Cates as a good-hearted Wendy. But it was a delight to hear again Ron Moody as both Mr. Darling and Hook. For not only did he replayed the play’s tradition of having those two characters played by the same actor, but his performance was just stunning. For having seen him in Carol Reed’s Oliver and in The Animals of Farthing Wood, I knew his performance would be excellent and that he would recapture the incredulous and serious Mr. Darling versus the calculative and resentful Captain James Hook.Kudos also to the composer Wilfredo Acosta whose music recaptured the magic of this play. And all my praises to BBC for airing this great show which will delight fans of the play and newcomers as well. But also fans of Dirk Maggs who has always amazed me with his shows that always bring out new fans to the Radio Play medium.

This is an excellent adaption of the original. Top-notch production and cast - Captain Hook and See are particularly good.We bought this as an audio book for my 5 year old to listen to on long car journeys, but it has something for everyone.

All round great.