Originally penned as a vehicle for Tony Award winner Mary Martin, Peter Pan has been a staple for high school and community theatre organizations for decades. The popular title had previously been licensed by Samuel French. It now joins the MTI catalogue, which also includes such musicals as Annie, Fiddler on the Roof, Les Misérables, Guys and Dolls and Into the Woods.
"Peter Pan is one of the most popular Broadway shows of all time," said MTI president Drew Cohen in a statement. "It is a cultural phenomenon that touches people of all generations. The show is perfect for all theatre audiences from professional productions to community theatres and high schools and it is a genuine privilege to welcome Peter Pan to our family."
Based on the J.M. Barrie play, Peter Pan has music by Charlap and Styne, with lyrics by Leigh, Comden and Green. It features such songs as "I'm Flying," "I've Gotta Crow," "I Won't Grow Up" and "Never Never Land."
Peter Pan originally opened Oct. 20, 1954, at the Winter Garden Theatre. Both Martin and Cyril Ritchard, who starred as Peter and Captain Hook, respectively, earned Tony Awards for their performances. The musical gained popularity nationwide thanks to television broadcasts with the original stars in 1955, 1956 and 1960.
