Peter Pan Musical Returns to Stage With Original Captain Hook Actor
Translated & summarized from Makor Rishon by baba
The musical "Peter Pan" will return to Israeli stages for Hanukkah 2026 in Tel Aviv and Haifa. Sasson Gabai reprises his role as Captain Hook from the 1988 original production, which is being remounted by director Hanoch Rosen. Lee Biran and Amir Banai will share the role of Peter Pan, with Meshi Kleinstein as Wendy. The revival features updated technology and original songs, aiming to bridge generations.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Sasson Gabai returns as Captain Hook in the "Peter Pan" musical revival for Hanukkah 2026.
- The "Peter Pan" musical will play in Tel Aviv and Haifa during Hanukkah 2026.
- Hanoch Rosen directs the revival, having also been involved in the 1988 original production.
- Lee Biran and Amir Banai will alternate in the lead role of Peter Pan.
- Meshi Kleinstein stars as Wendy in the updated production.
- The musical combines original songs with new technology and sets.
The musical "Peter Pan," which achieved success last summer, is set to return to the stage for Hanukkah 2026 with performances in Tel Aviv and Haifa. Directed by Hanoch Rosen, the production stars Lee Biran and Meshi Kleinstein, with Sasson Gabai reprising his role as Captain Hook. Actor Amir Banai will join the cast for Hanukkah, sharing the lead role of Peter Pan with Biran.
The musical, based on J.M. Barrie's book, first premiered in Israel in 1988. The original production, created by Uri Paster and Hanoch Rosen, featured Rosen as Peter Pan alongside Chani Nachmias and Sasson Gabai, becoming a memorable children's theater production. Now, over 35 years later, Rosen returns as director, and Gabai reprises his role as Captain Hook.
In the new production, Meshi Kleinstein plays Wendy, while Lee Biran and Amir Banai will alternate as Peter Pan. Other cast members include Linoy Cohen as Tiger Lily, Ofir Weil as Smee, Assaf Levy and Gilad Braun as John and Michael, and Hanan Schwartzberg, Liam Pinto, and Timothy Snickov as the Lost Boys.
The current revival, which opened last summer, combines the original, well-known songs with extensive sets and imported flying technology. The production aims to connect parents who grew up with the musical to a new generation experiencing the story for the first time. The show features songs like "The Night Must Come," "We Can Fly," and "Blood Brothers."