Robin & the Sherwood Hoodies

Stowmarket run two youth groups and this musical comedy was by the younger of the groups with a cast of 25 ranging from 8 – 12 year olds. This musical,  definitely not to be confused with  Pantos of the similar title, was  especially written for students and young people by Craig Hawes.  It was well written and with loads of comedy. In addition to the script he had also written the music and lyrics to accompany the show, supplying a vocal CD to help teach the songs, and  also with incidental music and sound effects. The songs themselves were excellent, lively and ideal for these energetic performers. Also included are Power-Point JPG of digital backdrops for every scene change.  I have not come across him before but found that he has written lots of musicals for juniors and is published by Musicline, so well worth looking into if you are looking for a junior show to produce.

The storyline has all the familiar characters you would expect from Robin in Sherwood Forest but with an interesting twist. This time Maid Marian needs help from Robin and his band of freedom fighters to help to stand up to the Sheriff and his guards. However she soon discovers these Merry Men are not fighters but actually a troupe of travelling entertainers rehearsing for their latest show. As director,Tory explained every cast member was given a CD so they can learn their songs at home by singing along to all the numbers and this is certainly a great way of teaching. Tory is no stranger to performing, as a singer and dancer herself,  her skills are certainly put to good use in training her students.

As one would expect from a group of entertainers their singing and dancing skills were all excellent, confident and with plenty of enthusiasm and energy.  The leading roles included Robin Hood (Amelia Jones), Maid Marion (Emily Ward) and The Sheriff of Nottingham (Robyn Wagstaff). Comedy was provided by the duo, Grabbit and Bolt (Amara Marriot & Bella Rose Williams) with some great ‘one liner’  jokes and double entendre which were delivered  well and with some good timing.  Robin’s Merry Men were all great little individual characters including Big John working a puppet Little John;  Alan with his lute and a very enthusiastic Dancing Dave with her Jazz Hands. I’m sure the whole cast thoroughly enjoyed their experience and it showed in their performance whilst giving them confidence as they go forward. I’m sure many of them will look forward to performing with the adult SODS as they get older which always helps to swell membership numbers in the future.  

The projected backdrops as already mentioned, looked good for each scene with just a few items of props being changed quickly to ensure good pace. These were complimented with some good lighting and sound effects. The costumes looked good and were well fitting.  

Well done to Tory and all her cast and crew for a very good and thoroughly enjoyable show to an audience made up with lots of proud and supportive family members.

Catherine Dixey.    NODA East, District 12 Representative.

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