Sometimes you’ve got to forget the real world and run with the pirates.

That’s the message in Billings Studio Theatre’s new production of “Peter Pan.” The point is driven home by a lively cast of children and adults who redefine the phrase “young at heart.”

Everyone knows the tale of Peter Pan, the boy who never wants to grow up, and the BST doesn’t offer any new insight into this forever boy. What it does bring us is a fresh holiday cocktail of dance, song and wonderment.

Local youths Molly Brown, Konner Howell and Kieven McCave were expertly cast as the Darling children, Wendy, John and Michael. Not only are they fun to watch soaring over the stage in the capable hands of the tech crew, under Mark  Tronrud’s guidance, but they can sing. Brown’s bright voice harmonizes well with the voices of Howell and McCave, adding some tender moments in the family nursery before they take their trip to Neverland.

But the stunner is Tiffany Melia in her performance in the title role. She summersaults with the kids and sword fights with the pirates, all with a swagger that belies her gender. Seldom leaving the stage, Melia is energetic without being corny, playing this tricky role just right. One of the highlights of the production is her frisky “I’ve Gotta Crow.”

“Neverland is nicely crammed,” Peter tells us. “There is no room between adventures.”

Directed by Chae Clearwood, the production features some beautiful ballets, featuring the young Indian maidens who inhabit Neverland, and the fairies, led by Amanda Hill, who takes on a double role as Mrs. Darling and Tinkerbell. Shelby Dangerfield is a fetching Tiger Lily.

Captain Hook (Kalen Brown) and his whipping boy Smee (Gustavo Belotta) are a hoot to watch. The whole 90-minute show flies by, well, like Peter flying us to Neverland.