Take That singer performs new songs and talks difficult task of writing for the stage….
The story of how Peter became Pan.
With the continuing theme of turning successful films into stage musicals an ever-growing phenomenon, do we really need another in the West End? From the likes of Legally Blonde, Made in Dagenham, Once and now into the world of fairy tales, is there a more perfect time that the arrival of a new musical about a flying boy that could change the world with just a little bit of magic?
Based on the hit Hollywood film of the same title featuring Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet, Finding Neverland follows the creation, life and work of J.M. Barrie as he finds the courage to become the writer, and the man, he yearns to be. With the help of widow Sylvia and her four sons, their escapades and the magical world of Neverland help Barrie to write a play unlike any that has been seen before. A tremendous risk, but as Barrie himself discovers - when you believe, you can fly.
The show, direct from a recasting and recreation in the US, is now looking to find a home here in London. The shows new writer, Take That favourite Gary Barlow, spoke publicly about his want to bring the musical to the West End. At an intimate location in London, the singer discussed the long and difficult journey the show has already had and how writing for musicals is not quite as easy as he first thought.
With a glowing beam, Barlow proclaimed "I can't believe i'm involved with the show".
Joined by Breaking Bad star Bryan Cranston, Barlow explained his approach and later addiction to this new style of writing: "I tried to find my own angle and write my own music for theatre, rather than imitating anyone else. I kinda approached composing the show like putting together an album, but with many important differences. Of course, the main being the art of continuing to tell a story through the song by moving the storyline along with it."
Cranston, who proudly proclaimed he was "enchanted" after seeing the show in Boston, discussed writing for Broadway performers and the vocal stamina needed to perform this show live eight times a week: "When I watch these (Broadway cast) actors and actresses, I have a whole new respect for them and what they do" explained the Take That singer.
He also revealed that his want, but then lack of involvement with the show, almost didn’t materialise. After actor James Corden's recommendation to the shows producer Harvey Weinstein, he revealed the movie giant was planning to ask songwriter Andrew Lloyd Webber to re-write the score until Corden's intervention during filming of the recent Into the Woods movie.
Barlow also performed a selection of songs from the show including When Your Feet Don't Touch the Ground and the title song, Neverland. Simple, rolling melodies that instantly present a magical feel, the singer showcased his work to an audience that responded with great praise and applause. Full story here!
Words William J Connolly, @wjconnolly
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