Robin Hood

Little Eaton Players – Robin Hood Pantomime
Written by Tom Whalley, adapted by Lea Holmes and Richard Kirkland
Directed by Richard Kirkland

Little Eaton Players delivered a thoroughly enjoyable pantomime with Robin Hood, a lively, fun-filled production that stayed true to traditional panto themes while adding plenty of humour, and energy that linked to current affairs.

Neve Smith took on the title role of Robin Hood and gave a confident and engaging performance, leading the story well and showing great stage presence. Opposite her, Becca Armstrong was a warm and likeable Maid Marion, and the pair complemented each other well.

The comedy roles were a real strength of the show. Ben Foreman fully embraced the Dame role as Nanny Fanny Flapjack, bringing plenty of laughs and strong audience interaction. Quick witted yet always in control, as a good Dame should be. Catherine Baker was very entertaining as Silly Willy Scarlett, delivering the humour with excellent timing and characterisation. Both did a great job in keeping the Pantomime moving at a good pace.

Gwen Murray gave a lovely performance as Sprite, adding sparkle and charm and very clear pronunciation, a triumph in her debut performance with Little Eaton. Jackson Young made a strong villainous presence as the Sheriff of Nottingham, clearly enjoying every moment of being booed and hissed by the audience. Jackson made an excellent Baddie, and he was well supported by Samantha Osvath as Scratch and Jo Russell as Sniff, who both added to the mischief and comedy.

Pete Watson appeared as King Richard, bringing authority and humour to the role. It was also lovely to see Sue Kirkland on stage as Little Sue. Sue was a delight to see and entered to a rousing applause. It took someone of Sue’s experience to deliver her scene as it required excellent comedic timing and professional prowess. 

The Merry Men were well represented, with Nick Mothershaw as Little John, Stef Osvath as Alan-a-Dale, Kelly Botham as Friar Tuck, and Lily Osvath as Much the Miller’s Son. All brought strong character work and great ensemble energy. Jess Johannesson impressed in the double role of Psychic Sally and the Bear, showing versatility and excellent timing.

Choreography by Julie Law was lively and well suited to a pantomime audience. The group of dancers from Little Eaton Dance School added contrast, movement, and polish to the show, contributing greatly to the atmosphere.

Behind the scenes, the production team supported the show very effectively. Sound was operated by Pete Watson and Jackson Young and was clear throughout and lighting by Cliff Kent helped create mood and focus on stage. Costumes and props were imaginative and practical, supporting both the storytelling and comedy. The set worked well for the production, providing a strong base for the many scenes and characters. Using good use of the technology available to keep the audience engaged.

Stage Crew Steve Baines and Sarah Murfin ensured the show ran smoothly, with scene changes handled efficiently.

Robin Hood by Little Eaton Players was a great pantomime, full of fun, teamwork, and strong performances across the cast. This year’s pantomime also felt sharper and more on point from start to finish. A strong cast who were all involved in contributing to an entertaining show that clearly delighted its audience, ourselves included.

Many thanks and congratulations on a great performance and we look forward to seeing your next production of the play ‘Try Anything Twice!’ later in the year.

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