Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood

Warmly welcomed by the front of house Helen and I were ushered to our seats looking forward to a good evening. The house was packed, which is a great sight and there was a real feeling of anticipation. Curtain rose, Cast frozen on stage, Opening lines delivered and away we went.

Simple staging allowed innovative use of a projection screen (full length) across the back, so no heavy and troublesome huffing of drapes and cloths. A relief for the stagecrew I fancy.

The songs were all delivered confidently and clearly from an enthusiastic ensemble, who were quite clearly enjoying the show. This came across to us in the audience and their delivery really made us feel part of the show. Great, well drilled choreography by Helen and Rebecca (with the youngsters) complimented brilliantly the vision and adaptation by Louise and Faye on the directorial side.

Wonderfully bright costumes made good use of the time honoured Robin Hood story and that, coupled with a good use of props and simple set, made the evening fly past.

Panto Jokes aplenty, had the audience rolling in the aisles and groaning at the same time.

All those who took part played their individual roles very well, but special mention here must go to Ben Smart as Nellie Nickerlastic, who seemed a natural to the dame role, Oliver Mitchell as the dastardly sheriff of Nottingham (in a growling almost Alan Rickmanesque way) and Emily Rose-Mould as Snivel. I especially liked the way that they reacted to the audience and involved as many as they could. Very natural and very funny.

All in all a really brilliant evening. Thank you Barbara for inviting us to come, and well done to everyone at PAC. Yet another triumph.

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