(1902), a novel primarily written for adults. Two years later, the eternally young and playful character was the central role in Barrie's play "Peter Pan, or The Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up". The 1904 performance in wintertime London captured the nation's heart and J.M. Barrie's world of 'Never Never Land' rapidly became a household name. Though J.M. Barrie avoided a full description of Peter Pan in his books, there are signs of his inspiration. Peter's name and flute are associated with the mythological god, Pan. Peter Pan has characterised eternal youth to readers for over one hundred years. He is described as still having his baby teeth and is initially presented as a seven year old, though his personality traits appear more like an early teenager. This concept is thought to be based upon Barrie's older brother who died in his late childhood after an ice-skating accident and "wouldn't grow up". The world of Never Land was also heavily inspired by legends, filled with fairies and mermaids. Peter Pan's closest friend is a protective fairy named Tinker Bell and together they fight the villainous Captain James Hook and his pirate crew of the Jolly Roger. A number of adaptations of the Peter Pan stories have been created since J.M. Barrie first introduced them to the world. In stage performances, Peter is most often played by a young woman to avoid the difficulties of casting even younger children as Peter's gang of "Lost Boys". Peter Pan remains a popular story for amateur plays and pantomimes throughout the UK. A contemporary ballet version of Peter Pan also continues to tour around the UK and over five film adaptations of Peter Pan have been made since the story was first published. There are statues of the Peter Pan character in London's Kensington Gardens and Barrie's hometown of Kirriemuir. The love of Barrie's character can be seen in statues as far away as Perth, Australia, and Toronto in Canada." />

• Contact
• Privacy & Security
• Complaints
• Help
• Accessibility
• Cookie Policy
• Outreach
• Site Map