This Tuck Shop production, now in its fourth year, has become a beloved fixture in the West End, captivating audiences with its blend of humour, music, and over-the-top performances. In true panto style, the story goes well off-piste with Peter Pan, played by Richard Energy, portrayed as a horny young man eager to try it on to almost every character in the story. He has the audience in stitches when getting up close and personal with his own shadow or through his numerous failed attempts to make out with Wendy (Kitty Scott-Claus).
The cast is a star-studded line up of drag artists, including alumni from shows like “Drag Race UK” and “Death Drop”. Each performer brings their unique style and comedic talent to the stage, ensuring that the audience is entertained from start to finish. Ginger Johnson as the villainous Hook and Yshee Black as the bumbling Smee provide comic brilliance, while Mahatma Khandi as Ethel Mermaid delivers hilarious physical comedy. Wendy, John, and Michael Darling, played by Kitty Scott-Claus, Kate Butch, and Cheryl Hole respectively, bring their own flair to the classic roles in musical numbers like “Our House” by Madness or through ridiculous strings of non-sensical swear words delivered at astonishing speed by Michael (Kate Butch).
Tuck Shop’s Peter Pan is very much a show for adults, packed with adult humour, pop culture references and drag culture jokes that keep the audience roaring with laughter. The cast’s ability to think on their feet and engage with spectators add spontaneity and fun to what is otherwise a simple stage set-up with very few, but funny, props.
The show blends traditional panto elements with drag performance to create an absurd, hilarious and unique panto experience this festive season. If you love drag, bawdy British humour and outrageous comedy, Tuck Shop’s Peter Pan is a rude, crude and not for prudes must-see.
Peter Pan is at the Phoenix Theatre, one of the most beautiful theatres in London’s West End, until 6 January 2025. The show is strictly for audiences over 16 years of age. Ticket prices start from £25. More information and booking is available on this website.