New York City
Five-time Tony nominee Kelli O'Hara has joined the cast of NBC's ''Peter Pan Live!" — in a role that doesn't necessarily need to be played by a singing actress.
O'Hara, who has a bachelor's degree in music and was most recently seen on Broadway as Francesca in The Bridges of Madison County, will take on the role of Mrs. Mary Darling, the wife of George Darling (to be played by Christian Borle) and mother of Darling children Wendy, John, and Michael. The character leads the song "Tender Shepherd," and takes part in "We Will Grow Up," but has no solos.
Mrs. Darling has been played in the past by Margalo Gillmore, Beth Fowler, Lauren Thompson, Barbara McCulloh, and Kim Crosby. O'Hara will next be seen in Lincoln Center Theater's production of The King and I.
NBC's Peter Pan Live!, airing December 4, stars Allison Williams in the title role, with Christopher Walken as Captain Hook. Borle will double as Mr. Darling and Smee. The musical features a score by Mark "Moose" Charlap, Jule Styne, Carolyn Leigh, Betty Comden, and Adolph Green. It is inspired by Peter Pan; or The Boy Who Wouldn't Grow Up by J.M. Barrie.