Robin Hood and The Babes in the Wood

I was intrigued to go to this pantomime as I have not seen it before and I found it an interesting concept and script combining two well known stories. Maybe not as popular as more well known pantomimes?

I would have preferred a live Overture as I am not a fan of canned music but this was soon forgotten as the curtain rose and we were treated to a fine opening number. Lighting and sound were superb throughout the evening, so important with Pantomime and the set and staging were excellent. All scene changes went smoothly and quietly a testament to all backstage crew. The costume department have been very busy and all their hard work has certainly paid off. A beautifully dressed show! There is yet again a very good cast with strong performances from all principals. Dean Callow as Nurse Norah never stopped working the audience and must have been exhausted by the end. It was good to see fine acting and commitment from minor roles, particularly Friar Tuck, Mike Devereau and Little John, Anthony Lawler. David Lyons showed his adaptability playing another henchman, Norman Numbskull, although, I cannot understand why a camp Frenchman would turn up in Sherwood Forest. Two more characters Joe Hillard as Will Scarlett and  Bryony Grant as Zelda were outstanding. The two “babes” gave a very confident performance and diction by all on stage was outstanding. Choreography was slick and very polished with a variety of innovative routines.

The choice of musical numbers was excellent and the three members of the orchestra seemed to enjoy the involvement with those on stage, creating just the right atmosphere for Pantomime. I sometimes feel that this particular genre works better in a more intimate theatre but once again this was a very high standard and my wife and myself had a great evening with you. Thank you for your warm welcome and I look forward to my next visit.

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