ROBIN HOOD

A great pantomime adventure from this youth group. Seventy three youngsters trod the boards to bring us a delightful afternoon. The tutors had worked particularly hard to bring this piece to our attention. Robin Hood is one of the lesser known pantomimes and the group brought this story to life with a cast of talented principals and an enthusiastic chorus. Music with a medieval flavour filled the auditorium before the commencement which put us in the mood of the occasion from the start.

Sophie Kenyon opened the pantomme as Fairy with excellent diction, I have it on good authority, that Elin Jones, who performed the role of Fairy in the previous performance, also fully justified her selection.

Ella Thomas gave a sterling portrayal of hero Robin Hood. Her musical numbers were delightful and she displayed both authority and pathos in the title role. Maid Marian was in the capable hands of Eden Salisbury who gave us a creditable performance and was a fine foil for Robin Hood.

What a contrast in the contribution from Charlie Michael. Two years ago he suffered the boos and jibes of the audience with his performance as Sheriff of Nottingham, but in Robin Hood, he gave us a first class performance as The Dame, Nurse Dolly. He connected with the audience on his first entrance and his rapport continued throughout the piece, thus proving Charlie can turn his hand to almost any character required – Well Done! I liked the comedy duo of Tom and Jerry, brilliantly played by Ryan Ehlke-West and Alex McGoona respectively, their comedy timing was incredible for children of that age. Good projection from Lila Ela Williams and Theo Salisbury as young children, Jennifer and John. Alex Gardner gave us a commanding characterisation of Sheriff of Nottingham, the panto ‘baddie’, Perfect in his script, it was obvious throughout, Alex submerged himself in this character, extracting the most from this enviable role. Minor roles, including Merry Men, were well cast.

The Junior and Senior chorus were well rehearsed throughout bringing us some excellent routines at the opening of Act 1 and Act 2, including The Time Warp – fab costumes. I particularly enjoyed the magical Toyland scene which depicted cowboys, nursery rhyme characters, clowns and a host of other characters led by a ballerina. They were joined by 12 Academy members who were just delightful, beautifully dressed and sprinkling magic dust. Congratulations to the costume department with many stunning outfits dazzling the stage, especially Nurse Dolly’s.

Another successful bulls eye for this energetic company.

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