Robin Hood and his Merry Men

This was the first time I had attended a pantomime at Tynemouth Priory Theatre.  The script for this version of Robin Hood is by David Cosgrove (Sheriff of Nottingham) and Ray Lowry (Nickem).  Together, David and Ray have assembled many of the fables connected to this well-known legend and turned them into a fresh, amusing tale. They have also woven together most of the anticipated pantomime set pieces and chosen/adapted songs and music which suited the production.  They were probably familiar with likely cast members, which enabled them to provide a tailor-made script.

A confident Nicola Shenton (Robin) was coupled with a delightful Amy Cosgrove (Marian) and their relationship developed nicely as the show progressed. Chris Young, as a dame named Nanny Goat, was amusing and possessed the stage whenever he was on.  The required pantomime fool, Jason Miller (Much) exhibited a self-deprecating line in comedy, and, particularly, proved himself when he had to mould four children from the audience into a percussion band with hilarious results from one enthusiastic young man.

Back in the forest, we had the evil Sheriff and his two incompetent henchmen, Ray Lowry as Nickem, and Jo Cosgrove as Trickem. Add a charming Ann Leake (as an intentionally inept Alan-a-Dale) trying to keep continuity together in the face of abuse from her compatriots backstage, and a couple of fine Merry Men in the forms of Rachel Hardy (Little John) and Helen Elliott (Will Scarlett) plus Robert Wilson Baker with false tummy, as Friar Tuck and a tale of Robin Hood was told efficiently to an enthusiastic audience.

The music was well performed, especially by Nicola and Amy who proved to have very pleasing voices, particularly when singing together, all supported by a small band comprising piano/keyboard,drums, bass guitar and guitar. A family connection between director Steve Smith and the three Smith brothers in the band was noted as well as a trio of Cosgroves!

Finally, I must mention the choreography performed by the Chorus with junior dancers from the Stages School of Dance. Well executed, the dance numbers also enhanced the overall enjoyment of this entertaining show.  Clearly a team effort, all the hard work created an effective and amusing pantomime.

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