A Musical Version of Finding Neverland for the West End?

Julian Ovenden Cast in the Touring Version, Which Could Land in the Capital in 2012/13

An interesting story comes courtesy of Baz Bamigboye in the Daily Mail this week as he has visited the upcoming touring production of “Finding Neverland”, based on the hit 2004 movie of the same name, and as part of his visit he learnt of plans to bring the show to the West End once the tour is over. It means that London theatre audiences could have an opportunity to witness the musical in the capital during the season from 2012 to 2013.

“Finding Neverland” is a 2004 movie from “Quantum of Solace” director Marc Forster that looks at playwright J M Barrie – creator of “Peter Pan” – and his relationship with those that inspired his most famous creation. As such we explore his friendship with Sylvia Llewelyn Davies and her sons and it is this relationship that inspired the events of the first “Peter Pan” book released at the beginning of the 20th century. Johnny Depp portrayed the lead role in the movie version with a supporting cast that included Kate Winslett and Dustin Hoffman, among others.

The cast of the musical touring version includes Julian Ovenden, Linda Thorson, Allan Corduner, Scarlett Strallen, and Alexander Hanson, Elliot Alinson, Connor Fitzgerald and Ilan Galkhoff.

Julian Ovenden has appeared in a wide range of roles over the years, including television and film parts alongside previous stints with the theatre. His credits include “Foyle’s War”, “The Royal” and “A Christmas Carol: The Musical”, whilst for the stage those that have picked up theatre tickets may recognise him from shows like “Annie Get Your Gun”, “Grand Hotel”, “Merrily We Roll Along” and “Butley” in shows around the country.

It is not yet clear whether the performers would be remaining in the production when the show finds itself in the capital. It is also yet to be indicated where the show is set to appear, though we do know that it will stand-up alongside various other musicals in London to have their origins in non-musical cinema, with others such as “Billy Elliot the Musical” to “Legally Blonde the Musical”.