Peter Pan and Tinkerbell -- A Pirate's Christmas

Peter Pan and his Lost Boys have left Neverland and will find a home at the Pasadena Playhouse this holiday. The popular playhouse continues it seasonal tradition with their latest offering, "Peter Pan and Tinkerbell -- A Pirate's Christmas," a fun, new show full of music and magic. A guaranteed good time for the whole family, make sure this production is on your holiday wish list.

Performed in the style of a traditional British Panto, an interactive musical based on classic fairy tales, "Peter Pan and Tinkerbell -- A Pirate's Christmas" tells the story of a Peter, a boy who simply refuses to grow up and a band of merry pirates whose Christmas goal is to capture him. The audience is encouraged to participate in the show by singing along, clapping and "booing."

Once again directed by Bonnie Lythgoe, best known for her choreography and involvement in "So You Think You Can Dance," this year's show comes to life on stage with a talented group of actors of all ages. Musical director Michael Orland ("American Idol") is back as well, providing the music that will have you singing and dancing along in your seats.

The cast is led by Kevin Quinn as Peter Pan himself. Dressed in his iconic green suit, Quinn spends a good amount of his stage time soaring through the air, much to the enjoyment of the audience whose "oohs" and "ahhs" could be heard every time he took flight. He was simply charming as the mischievous boy and delivered an uplifting performance both up in the air and on stage.

The Darling family is played by the cast of "Girl Meets World," and is made up of the lovely Sabrina Carpenter as Wendy, Corey Fogelmanis as John and little August Maturo as Michael. All three actors do a phenomenal job portraying their characters. In a cast full of stars, they all radiate on stage delivering stellar performances.

Chrissie Fit plays the frolicsome fairy, Tinkerbell. She is by far the most fun and feisty version of the fairy I have ever seen. She is simply hilarious and had the audience in stitches when she showed her exasperation by speaking in Spanish. A fiery Latina Tinkerbell -- genius.

The star of the show was Mr. John O'Hurley, best known for his portrayal of Mr. Peterman on "Seinfeld." When I read that he was playing Captain Hook I was beyond excited! Not only was he a favorite of mine on the sitcom, but to see him live on stage in perhaps one of the best villainous roles of all time was a true holiday gift. His performance is worth the price of admission alone -- he is hilariously evil and has such a commanding force on stage that you'll be on the edge of your seat waiting for his next act. Whether he is belting out a musical number, scolding his first mate Smee (played by the delightful Parvesh Cheena) or prancing on stage with his crew of pirates, every moment he spends in front of the audience is spellbinding.

The set is beautifully constructed. Set designer Ian Wilson did a fantastic job creating whimsical backdrops of everything from the Darling family nursery, to the Lost Boys Camp to Captain Hook's ship. With each set change we were all transported from London to Neverland and back with some breathtaking works of art.

This is the Playhouse's fourth year presenting Panto at the Playhouse and each year the performances get better and better. In addition, before every show the Playhouse's outdoor courtyard is transformed into a winter wonderland with games for the children, Santa photo opportunities, crafts and much more.

"Peter Pan and Tinkerbell -- A Pirate's Christmas" is a great way to add some sparkle to your holiday season, so pull out your fairy dust and make your way over for an adventure you won't soon forget.

"Peter Pan and Tinkerbell -- A Pirate's Christmas" runs through Jan. 3, 2016 at The Pasadena Playhouse, 39 South El Molino Ave. in Pasadena. For tickets and information, call 626-356-7529 or visit www.pasadenaplayhouse.org.