Robin Hood

There are two good indications of a good pantomime – firstly, that the audience are enjoying themselves and joining in with everything that is going on and secondly, that the cast are having fun. STARS, with STARBURST, certainly delivered on both of these.
The comedy was led by the outrageous Dame Dilly (Chris Binns) in his inimitable style and Will Scarlett (Dave Collins), who had the audience with him from the start. When I say “comedy”, I mean a whole script of outrageous puns that drew groans and cheers in equal measure from an enthusiastic audience. To be fair, they did provide an “old joke” warning!  They were well supported comedy-wise by Dim (Leo Mercer) and Dimmer (Connor Disley Gonzalez), two young men with great comedy timing.
The love interest of Robin Hood (Ellie Chalmers) and  Maid Marian (Eva de Luca) made a delightful couple with an excellent rapport, strong vocals and were a joy to watch – Ellie was one of the best Principal Boys I have seen this pantomime season. 
The Sheriff of Nottingham (Martin Isbister) had the audience booing before he had even spoken a word –  he looked very much like a Bond villain with his “tatttooed head” and (Imperial) leather costume. Even NODA is not beyond product placement. He had an evil accomplice in Black Barbara (Caitlin Riley) – not a character I remember from the Robin Hood story but she played it with style and looked very glamorous.
The scenes were interspersed by the minstrel songs of Ellen-a-Dale (Katy Chalmers) – she had a lovely singing voice, looked good and coped well with the “changes” that were sprung upon her on the last night. 
Able support was provided by Friar Tuck (Tom Clayton), Little John (Dave Harris), Theresa (Izzy Wade), Much (Shannon Riley) and Less (Lydia Fish).  For some reason known only to STARS we were treated to an encounter with The Three Bears (Andrew Charles, Julie Birmingham & Eleanor Birmingham) in the middle of Sherwood Forest – Daddy Bear sounded just like King Richard !! Well done to the rest of the company – it is always a pleasure to see the youngsters of STARBURST working with and learning from their more experienced colleagues at STARS.
STARS are successful due to the off stage support and teamwork of so many people. Stage Crew, Wardrobe, Props/scenic design, programme design and a host of others bring their expertise and help to get the production on to the stage. They too deserve their round of applause.
Congratulations to the production team – Directors (Chris Binns & Joan Tattersall) and the Musical Director (Peter Boyes) – for a wonderful evening’s entertainment. 

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