Neverland lands in High Wycombe
Peter Pan is already sprinkling its magic over High Wycombe, months before the curtain rises at the Wycombe Swan. For the theatre, panto season doesn’t just mean December – the excitement starts almost as soon as the previous pantomime closes!
This summer, returning favourite La Voix, who will play Tinker Bell, stopped by the boats on the Rye for a taste of pirate life alongside comedian Kev Orkian, this year’s Smee. It was a chance for the cast to explore the town they will soon help entertain.
The production is a collaboration between Wycombe Swan and Imagine Theatre, and the search is on for the next generation of stars, with casting underway for the junior ensemble. Open auditions for Michael and John were held in September, giving local talent the chance to step into the spotlight.
Peter Pan runs from 11th December 2026 to 3rd January 2027 at Wycombe Swan. Tickets can be purchased online at wycombeswan.co.uk.
Beats not blades
The impact of Wycombe Youth Action’s anti-knife crime project is continuing to grow beyond the original music video.
While YouTube views are still building, several of the young people involved have developed their interest in music, with some creating their own YouTube channels and platforms to showcase their work. Others have progressed into the group’s next anti-knife crime film project, which began at Easter and has introduced participants to production and filmmaking. A four-track EP is also planned.
Three participants have since left the project after completing the original track, reflecting the different stages at which young people choose to move on.
The video has already been shown in a school, with wider screenings planned in PSHE lessons from September. Although it is too early to measure any impact on knife crime figures, organisers hope the film will stimulate discussion among young people and encourage others to become involved in positive creative projects.
Feedback has so far been extremely positive, with the film sent to more than 300 organisations across England. The track has also received airplay on underground radio and BBC local radio and has been submitted to BBC New Releases. The group continues to perform the track live at community events and festivals.
Find out more here: wycombeyouthaction.co.uk or watch the video on YouTube @WycombeYouthAction.
