When I asked my family what their favorite character was, I heard different answers. DS8 quickly said, “Mickey Mouse!” DD11 chimed in, “Cinderella!” I know that Charlie likes Donald Duck, and I have to say that I’m not sure what my favorite is. I would have a problem if someone said that my life depended on it because I truly have an equal like for several characters. When I changed the question to choose a family favorite, the answer came much easier. “Peter Pan!” they exclaimed.
“Why?” I countered.
“Because he can fly!” DD11 responded.
Even though we have been to Disney parks numerous times, we have only been able to meet Peter Pan this one time at the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Both kids love to watch the Peter Pan movies, and DS8 was thrilled to be able to help with the Peter Pan story at Innoventions in Disneyland during our last trip.
Peter Pan was written by Scottish novelist and playwright Sir James M. Barrie. I knew that stage productions have always used a female in the Peter Pan role, but it was not until I looked at the Disney Archives post that I realized that Walt Disney’s version was the first to deviate from that tradition.
According to Disney Archives, Bobby Driscoll (the voice of Peter Pan) played Johnny in Song of the South (1946), Jeremiah Kincaid in So Dear to My Heart (1949), and Jim Hawkins in Treasure Island (1950). Bobby Driscoll was Disney’s first contract child performer. What I find so interesting is that he actually filmed live-action reference for the animators. It states that this was mainly for close-up scenes. Peter’s graceful flying and action references were provided by dancer Roland Dupree.
So back to the question of why my kids like Peter Pan… Peter Pan never grows up. He flies anywhere he wants to go and has grand adventures. He lives in a world where responsibility never comes.
Beth says
I love the last paragraph! Perfect!
homeschoolingdisneystyle says
Thank you! I’m glad you stopped by!