Robin Hood & the Babes in The Wood

Entering the theatre, we are met with an impressive set painted to depict medieval Sherwood Forest, through the forest dotted with animals, up a long winding road to the castle. This set the scene perfectly where King Richard has left his two children in the care of his wicked brother and sister in law, who with the Sheriff of Nottingham and his sidekick are plotting to dispose of the children and put themselves on the throne financed by the local villagers. Until of course the arrival of our hero Robin Hood, his merry men, with support from Maid Marion and his faithful lookout Hayrick!

We soon meet ‘Robin’ in ‘This is Me’ one of several polished company numbers led by Chloe Yates, who throughout gave us an accomplished all singing and dancing performance.  Daisey- Mae Jones exuded confidence with a charming smile as ‘Maid Marion’, and her ‘Shoop Shoop’ number and duet ‘The Longest Time’ with Chloe were a delight. 

We soon learn of the ‘Sheriff of Nottingham’s intentions with his side-kick ‘Pokem’, played with great strength and characterisation by Marcus Delorenzo and J Dunn Gormley respectively. No panto would be complete without an amorous ‘dame’, this time called ‘Nursie (Nora) ’ and this was played with plenty of presence by Penny Sant, whilst taking the lead in such numbers as ‘Who Let the dogs Out’ and ‘I’m Not Wearing Underwear Today’! Nursie only had eyes for the hapless ‘Hayrick’ played with great strength and timing by Andrew Evans. 

The two Babes, ‘Rosie’ and ‘Jim’ (Faith Barlow and Tallulah Richards) also performed and sang with confidence whilst their bungling captures ‘Bashem’ and  ‘Thumpem’  (Casey Benson and Zac Spiers) kept the action moving with energy and sang their number  ‘Shine’ well.

The singing throughout was in fact very well delivered and I enjoyed ‘Islands in The Stream’ sang by ‘Prince John’ and ‘Queen Arachnid’  (Steve Crofts and Chris Kislak) who also added to the wicked fun.

Many of the musical numbers were accompanied by the ‘Marionettes’ (Jude Sanderson, Jessica Varney & Willow Haynes) who sang well and so too did all the younger ones, particularly in the number ‘Revolting Children’. I must also compliment them on their smiling faces, so important. Further good support was provided by Robin’s merry men! What helped tremendously was the control of the orchestra, led by Kendra Yates, which never overpowered the singing – just right.

Congratulations to Director Karen Evans and all involved on stage, back stage and front of house in providing a great evening’s entertainment.

 

 

 

 

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.