Robin Hood

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending Hudswell Village Players’ latest pantomime, Robin Hood, a dazzling display of theatrical talent and community spirit that was nothing short of exceptional covering for fellow rep John Holliday. I’m so pleased I had volunteered, despite the number of pantomimes in my own district, as the production was a testament to the commitment and creativity of all involved, offering an afternoon brimming with laughter, energy, and festive cheer.  Their venue is a very small village hall where access is limited, space is at a premium and seats are a hot purchase but boy did Hudswell Payers deliver!

The script from NODA North favourite, Tom Whalley was a triumph, striking a perfect balance between traditional pantomime tropes and fresh, inventive humour. Witty dialogue and clever asides kept the audience thoroughly engaged from curtain up to final bows. The narrative flowed seamlessly, with each scene building upon the last in a way that never felt forced or formulaic. The jokes landed with precision, and the story was accessible to children while offering plenty for adults to enjoy.

The overall style of the production was vibrant and polished, showcasing the company’s attention to detail in costumes, sets, and choreography. The pace was expertly managed: never rushed, yet never dragging, allowing both comedic and poignant moments to shine. The comedy sparkled throughout, with slapstick routines, quick-witted banter, and perfectly timed visual gags that had the audience roaring with laughter. Hudswell Village Players demonstrated a real understanding of pantomime’s unique blend of chaos and control, delivering a riotous, well-judged spectacle. Credit is due to the production team of Director Jordan Hamilton-Leighton and assistant Scott Edwards for a clean expertly delivered production. The cast worked as a cohesive ensemble, each performer given space to shine while maintaining the unity essential to a successful pantomime from youngest juniors to the entire cast. The use of very limited stage space inventive, keeping the action dynamic and visually engaging. Ensemble numbers were energetic and tightly choreographed, reflecting a director with both vision and discipline.  The performance felt very immersive and interactive due to the inventive way the cast have to enter the performance area.

It would be remiss not to single out the extraordinary performance by Richard Hamilton-Leighton as Nanny Fanny Flapjack.  Now I’d seen at last year’s NODA Performance Awards, where Richard won a Councillors Award for Best Pantomime dame but had never seen him perform myself. From the moment he stepped onto the stage, Richard commanded attention with his comic timing, expressive delivery, and effortless rapport with the audience. His costumes were a riot of colour and creativity, and his improvisational skills brought an added sparkle to every scene. Both children and adults warmed instantly to his larger-than-life persona, and his ability to steer the show’s comedic core was simply masterful.  Poor Mayor of Richmond, Carl Tate was targeted by Nanny’s advances throughout this performance and the audience were rioting with laughter at their antics.  I cannot recall any panto where I have been wiping tears of laughter from my chin at a performance (it’s behind you, the ghoul scene, Richard’s expressions literally had me almost falling off my chair) so clearly for me last year’s accreditation was well deserved! Utterly incredible.

Unusually and as a bonus there were two Dame characters with the superb Scott Edwards being unrecognisable as the Sheriff of Nottingham bringing more colour and flair to the performance, though I was surprised both dresses fit on the stage!  Scott plays a baddie character expertly and this year was no exception with so much engagement and audience participation.  Loved “You’ll Be Back” from Hamilton and the slight silliness applied to it, real perfection in delivery for the scene.

I very much enjoyed the camp, over the top and hilarious “Merry Men” to the track of “It’s Raining Men” and the Moulin Rouge mega mix between Robin Hood played very well by Kirsty McLachlan and Maid Marion played by Grace Baker was delightful.  Grace performed “Someone like You” and for a young lady of such youth and in a pantomime ease she delivered it with a real rich depth. Loved it, really incredible performance Grace. The Merry Men’s portrayal of “Revolting Children” was a delight and very energetic, along with “Flash Bang Wallop” from Half a Sixpence which was really excellent given the limited space so well done to Little Jon played by Nate Robinson who was a comic delight, Friar Tuck played by Jordan Hamilton-Leighton, Alan-a-Dale played by Alfie Webster and the remainder of the supporting cast.  Silly Willy played by Heidi Bradley was a fantastic part of the cast, providing the great sounding board for Nanny, Marion and the others, and bringing energy and gusto to the role.  Sherwood Sprite played by Samina Jacques was a lovely positive influence throughout bringing light to the piece.

The supporting cast brought the script to life with enthusiasm and skill. Principal roles were played with confidence and charisma, while the ensemble contributed energy and harmony to musical numbers and crowd scenes. The chemistry amongst the players was evident, providing a palpable sense of fun that spread throughout the auditorium.

I actually didn’t write down as many notes as usual as I was too busy laughing! The audience’s response mirrored the excellence on stage, with generous applause, laughter, and enthusiastic participation throughout. The production succeeded not only in entertaining but in fostering a genuine sense of community spirit, a hallmark of the best amateur theatre.

Hudswell Village Players have delivered a pantomime of exceptional quality, brimming with talent, creativity, and heart. The script, style, pace, comedy, direction, and, above all, the outstanding Dame played by Richard Hamilton-Leighton, combined to create an unforgettable evening. This production sets a new benchmark for village pantomimes, and I look forward to seeing what this remarkable company will achieve in the future.  I am most certainly looking forward to their Adult Only pantomime in April!

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