THIS Christmas, the Octagon is transporting audiences to Neverland, making sure they have plenty of laughs on the way.

To celebrate the festive season, the theatre has put on a fabulous musical adaptation of J.M Barrie's classic story, Peter Pan.

Last year, Covid forced the cancellation of the Octagon's Christmas show, which for many really is one of the big highlights of the festive season.

And this fun show did not disappoint.

In a break from tradition for the Octagon, the production had a touch of the panto feel about it ­— slap stick comedy, much more audience participation – and the packed house loved it.

The show is brought alive by a talented cast of just five, with Matthew Heywood's portrayal of the boy who never grew up being brilliantly engaging.

The Bolton News: peter-pan-3-robert-jackson-and-jason-patel-credit-jonathan-keenan. Peter Pan Octagon

In this high energy production, Matthew, Amy Drake, Robert Jackson, Purvi Parmar and Jason Patel, fly the audience to the magical land of Neverland, introducing them to the

gang of pirates, troupe of fairies and the Lost Boys.

They five work well together and seem to have has much fun on stage as we have watching them.

No production of Peter Pan would be complete without the flying scenes, which really take off in the second half – and look out for the crocodile, another showstopping puppet which the Octagon has brought to Bolton.

The classic story has been given a modern day makeover – with cultural references such as Strictly, and there is even a mobile phone reference included in that - which works well.

The Bolton News: peter-pan-7-matthew-heywood-credit-credit-jonathan-keenan.jpg .{Peter Pan Octagon

The show contains the perfect ingredients for a family show, even if it may leave the very youngest members of the audience a little overwhelmed, if not a little scared of Captain Hook.

There are songs, there are laughs and cheers, the audience are very much part of the production, particularly in the second half, and fun songs and dances.

There is no doubt that the audience left the auditorium feeling entertained and very much feeling the festive spirit.

Peter Pan runs January 9.

Book tickets via the Octagon Box Office on 01204 520661 or at octagonbolton.co.uk Pictures by Jonathan Keenan