Can Robin Hood outwit the dastardly Sheriff of Nottingham, and win the heart of Maid Marion to boot? Oh no, he won’t! Oh yes, he will!
The man in tights is at centre stage for the Fisher Theatre’s traditional panto, produced as in previous years by Reduck Producktions. The show is packed with all the ingredients you expect from festive entertainment: slapstick, silly jokes, singalongs, and a healthy dose of audience participation.
Despite nominally being a supporting role, it is Daniel Crowley as Will Scarlett and henchman Helmut that really stands out – bringing plenty of energy and a cheeky grin to the dual role – joined in shining from the sides by Gillian Dean as spirit of the forest Cher Wood.
Eloise Cubbin is a delightful Marion, giving the traditional romantic role a more modern edge, and with the strongest vocals on the cast (though the Saturday night performance seemed to have some technical issues). Quinn Richards is a dashing Robin Hood, but it’s not always clear whether he is supposed to be brave or dim.
Ian Wilkinson is clearly enjoying being the evil Sheriff, throwing out plenty of cackles and challenging the audience to boo louder, with Leighton Melville adding a dollop of innuendo (and terrorising the front row) as dame Little Joan.
There are some fun physical moments – including an alternative and frenzied Twelve Days of Christmas, and Ellis Rose Rother’s circus skills as the merry men seek to dupe the Sheriff. The golden arrow shoot out is also neatly staged.
Hayley Evenett’s script is witty but perhaps a little too so, leaning towards word play rather than the silliness that can appeal to all the family – always a difficult balance in panto to keep all ages entertained. It means the first half lacks a little energy, until a hunt for puppet ‘Friar Duck’ gets the whole audience shouting.
There’s a lot to enjoy here, especially in the punchier second act. It’s a great value family show, and the Fisher’s intimate setting makes it especially perfect for those that might be overwhelmed by bigger venues.
- Robin Hood is at Fisher Theatre, Bungay until Wednesday, 31 December, tickets £12-£18.
