Robin Hood

Upstagers Theatre first performed Robin Hood in 1992 – and I’m sure that whilst today’s version is a very different production from over 30 years ago, all the elements of a fabulous pantomime are still as evident today.  This production of Robin Hood had it in spades.  This cleverly written version, by John Clark and Joey Wilby ensured we all had a “merry” time with Robin and his band of men (and women!).

Traditional panto humour was introduced right from the start of the panto.  The audience quickly got involved with the “boos and hisses”, the “oh yes he/she is, oh no he/she isn’t” retorts – it was great to see the audience filled with so many youngsters – brownies, guides, Upstagers Academy…all very excited and enthusiastic to see what they could “shout out” next!

Combined with some new (very cleverly thought out) material – this was all hilarious and kept the audience entertained right from the word go.  I particularly loved the “chocolate” story that Will & Winnie told, and the “If I Were Not A…” song with Robin, Will and the rest of the gang!  Brilliantly written, and superbly delivered.  And it was great to see a different approach to the usual pantomime “songsheet” – the Cha Cha slide – one sure fire way to get everyone up on their feet and joining in!  What’s not to love?!

An outstanding cast of goodies (Robin and his Merry band), baddies (the Sheriff and his side kick Guy), a beautiful fairy and an abundant company of brilliant dancers & chorus filled the stage from start to finish. 

In the title role of Robin Hood was Sophie Holdsworth.  She had a fabulous rapport with the audience and delivered her lines with such confidence and clarity.  Her singing was amazing – perfect in the part of principal boy!

Alex Wright was brilliant as Will Scarlett – one of Robin’s “merry men”!  His comic timing was perfect, and he also had great rapport with the audience.  The kids went mad with their replies each time he came on stage, and when anyone tried to pinch his box of chocolates!  Alex oozes confidence in everything he does – song, dance and lib all delivered with perfection.

Maid Marian was beautifully played by Olivia Leather – another piece of perfect casting.  She looked stunning, and her vocals were fabulous.  Duets with Sophie, as Robin Hood, were perfectly executed by two very strong singers.

And now to the loveable “villain” of the panto – the evil Sheriff of Nottingham – expertly played by George Scaife.  As always, George is so loveably evil, and I think the audience were really happy when he turned out to be a “goodie” after all – and we had the treat of the “SHABBA” megamix!!!

Ashley Judge’s interpretation of Winnie Wildwood was absolutely spot on.  His first ever venture into pantomime damehood – and I really hope its not his last.  Great comic timing, fabulous rapport with the audience (particularly David from Harrogate the night we were in the audience!!!) – and brilliant camaraderie with his fellow performers!  Congratulations Ash – you smashed it as Winnie!

Amy Watt was the beautiful Fairy Fernleaf - the “goody” of the piece who kept everyone on track and under control with her leafy wand!!!  Excellent diction with great clarity, and stunning vocals too!

The principal line up was completed by James Hepworth as Guy of Gisborne, Gemma Smith as Alana Dale, Matthew Disney as Friar Tuck and Gracie Waterhouse as Lil J – all superb strong characters with great rapport with fellow actors.  Some fabulous “comedy” moments and all lines were cleverly delivered. 

With a total cast of nearly 80 people (including the support actors Alex and Landon, Seniors, Juniors, Inters and Tinies in Team Arrow & Team Bow) the stage was just full of happy smiling faces, superb dancing and outstanding singing.  Energy, enthusiasm and pure enjoyment flowed from the stage, right into the audience…panto entertainment at its very best once again from this company.

Costumes, make up and wigs were superb – the company are very lucky to have a dedicated “wardrobery team” of 6, headed up by Hayley Whiteley.  Molly Limpets Theatrical Costume Hire, Bingley Amateurs, SCALA and Costume Creative Hire all added to the overall stunning effect.

Brilliant set (DSH Pantomime Set Hire), props (Darren Blackwell, Josh Longbottom and Craig Whiteley on speciality prop construction) by Thelma Pacsoo, lighting (Andy Bruce & team), sound and special effects (John Trenouth) all added to this totally professional production.

MD Phil Walsh and his house band (The Nottingham Nymphs) were excellent as always and they didn’t drown out the action on stage.  A fabulous choice of musical numbers which were fitting to the story line…yes, who knew that there were so many ABBA songs in Sherwood Forest?!?!

The choreography by Lily Normington & Bea Whiteley was brilliant and creative.  There were seamless transitions from team to team as they exited/entered the stage.  Eye catching and fast paced dances, all performed with style, energy and they were all executed superbly.  No one put a foot wrong!

John, Andrew, Phil, Lily & Bea – you have once again brought an outstanding production to life in 2024.  None of this could happen without the enormous team of people who contribute to Upstagers Theatre productions, and each and every single one of you should be congratulated on the continued work that you do – thank you all for keeping (amateur) theatre alive.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.