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Robin Hood first appeared in a pantomime in 1867 having been
introduced into Babes In The Wood as the character who rescues the
babes from their ill fated destiny. After various adaptations he
finally became the subject of his own pantomime Merry Sherwood in
the 1790's. Today the story lines of Robin Hood and Babes In The
Wood are often combined but this Proper Pantomime Production tells
the story of Robin Hood returning from the Crusades with King John
to find his lands, property & wealth confiscated and his true love
Maid Marion betrothed to another by order of the wicked Sheriff of
Nottingham.
Of course in time honoured fashion, good ultimately triumphs over
evil with a little help from the enchantress of the forest, played
by Vicki. And enchant she did, holding the audience spellbound with
a glittering performance, the stage hers to command. Nathan Guy
performed the pivotal role of Will Scarlet with boundless energy and
quickly won the support of the enthusiastic audience with his added
natural quick wit. Emma Gilmour & Nicola Weeks provided some melodic
musical harmonies while Simon Davies put a new slant on the
traditional pantomime baddie with a snape-like portrayal ultimately
melted by the kindly and somewhat gentle Dame of Mitch Jenkins.
The
2007 Proper Pantomime Company version of Robin Hood ran at the Connaught
Theatre, Worthing from 7th December 2007 to the 6th January
2008 breaking box office records and was a traditional pantomime in every sense. Featuring all
the expected requirements one of its main strengths lay in a strong
storyline based on a recognised legend which held the audience
throughout. |