Why is Peter Pan always played by a girl on stage?

Question

Why is Peter Pan always played by a girl on stage?

Answer 1

Because it is a pantomime, the lead male is always played by a lady.

Answer 2

The main reason the role was written for a woman is the same reason many young boy roles are portrayed by women in "pants roles" the opera: a full-grown woman dressed as a little boy is going to have a more mature grasp on the subject matter than an actual young boy. It also didn't help that the flying harnesses of old usually had a piece that went between the legs, something that isn't exactly comfortable for a man, let along when trying to sing and appear exuberant.

Answer 3

maybe the girl has the most talent in the auditions and can sing the best.

Answer 4

well, the problem is casting a child that can handle the title role, plus the flying, plus the music, plus the other children have to be younger than pan so i think it was just easier to cast a woman. this way you can cast according to talent and not fight the age and maturity of an actual child.  

Answer 5

why is Edna (traceys mom) afrom hairspray always played by a man?

Answer 6

Peter Pan is not always played by a girl, but for one thing, Peter Pan has to "fly" out the window. The harnessing and the pulleys are complicated, and most girls are lighter weight than guys.