ROBIN HOOD and his Merry Men.

Sparkwell Amateur Theatre Company
ROBIN HOOD and his Merry Men. Script by Alex Jackson
Performed at Sparkwell Parish Hall
As seen by Nina Jarram, NODA SW District 3 Representative on Thursday 4 th
December 2025
Directed by Colin Woodfin
Choreographed by Carole Wilson
This year’s Sparkwell pantomime burst into life, quite literally, with an explosive
pyrotechnic announcing the arrival of our narrator, the Fairy. Played by a young actor
with striking confidence, this Fairy avoided the expected sugary sweetness and
instead brought a welcome edge and attitude, immediately setting the tone for a bold
and spirited production.
A lively ensemble followed, flooding the auditorium with noise, colour, and a joyful
mix of ages. Their presence firmly rooted the show in its community spirit.
Ensembles can make or break a pantomime, and this gifted group never faltered.
Constantly responding to the action with intention and investment, they proved the
true engine of the performance, maintaining energy and connection throughout. The
opening dance number showcased this beautifully with polished lighting, strong
vocals, and choreography that was dynamic yet accessible.
Among the standout performances was the actor portraying Sir Guy, whose slapstick
charm and impeccable comic timing were matched only by a gloriously unruly
wig—one that brought to mind the flamboyance of Rylan and the cheek of Jack
Whitehall. His seasoned ease with the audience and rapport with fellow cast
members made every scene he touched a delight.
Equally memorable was the Sheriff of Nottingham, played with delicious deadpan
dryness. His assertive physicality and sharply delivered barbs fully embraced the
villainous persona, earning well-deserved boos from the delighted crowd.
Our Dame swept onstage with a flourish, somewhere between Mary Poppins and
Maria von Trapp, with the energy to match. An experienced performer, he
commanded the audience effortlessly with crisp diction, powerful vocals, and a
natural ease that kept the story moving with clarity and humour.

The Sheriff’s nieces, played by two impressively assured young performers, were
another highlight. Their superb vocals and confident stage presence shone through;

the pantomime offered a wonderful platform for these rising stars. Definitely leading
ladies in the making. Their performance of a contemporary number from Matilda
alongside our wonderful Dame was both refreshing and expertly executed.
Visually, the show dazzled. We were treated to a neon skeleton sequence that
cleverly employed UV lighting to great effect, showcasing strong design choices and
slick technical operation. The choreography throughout was excellent, but the
standout was the enchanting Woodland Ballet. Performed by younger cast members
and led by a ballerina en pointe, it brought grace and calm to the otherwise high-
energy pace—a beautiful contrast that added texture to the evening.
Robin Hood and Maid Marion played their roles with poise, strong vocals, and clear
projection, supported by an entertaining band of Merry Men, each with their own
quirks. Friar Tuck’s tipsy antics were particularly well-delivered, earning plenty of
laughs. The “Men in Tights” number was another comic triumph, especially with the
cheeky “and women!” refrain that gently skewered modern sensitivities.
Though the programme lacked a credited Musical Director, the musical quality spoke
for itself. The Act I harmonies were stunning, and the ensemble numbers showcased
tight rehearsal and passionate delivery.
The bow-and-arrow scene deserves special praise—smartly staged with visual
trickery and comic flair. Older audience members chuckled at the nostalgic nod to
the Bullseye theme tune, conjuring memories of longed for speedboats and
caravans. The ensuing arrow-ography was inspired, offering a hilariously chaotic
farce that proved a highlight of the night.
Production values across the board were impressive. Scene transitions ran like
clockwork, dance formations were clean and confident, and the costumes—ranging
from bones and bushes to badgers—captured the show’s playful madness perfectly.
The wardrobe team outdid themselves.
Above all, the production radiated community, care, and commitment to showcasing
every cast member’s strengths, from ambitious, acrobatic leaps to powerhouse
vocals in Holding Out for a Hero. It was a joyful, high-spirited start to the festive
season. It certainly had Spark and it was done Well. Oh yes it was!

PLEASE NOTE: Any observation made by the reviewer can only be based on what he sees at the
performance in question. The reviewer may have received information in advance of the performance
and it is
inevitable that his assessment will be affected by that knowledge.
The N.O.D.A. Representative’s intention is to give an objective critique of the overall production and in
particular the performance viewed. It should be remembered that any review of this nature can only
be objective as far as the techniques used during the performance observed. Any criticisms
expressed may not have been valid at other performances, and are only made to encourage higher
standards in Amateur Theatre.
It is hoped that the audience’s appreciation of your efforts will have given everyone a lift and
encouraged you to greater achievements in the future and that the observations made by the reviewer

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