The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood
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Robin Hood – the name brings many thoughts to mind. He was the hero of the middle ages that stood up for the poor. Yes, he did steal, but somehow that is easy to forget considering all the good he did. Then of course all the handsome Robin Hoods come to mind as well, like, Douglas Fairbanks, Errol Flynn, Richard Green (TV series), Kevin Cosner and now Russell Crow.
It is amazing how wild and crazy the story has become, especially in the movies. Although Errol Flynn and Olivia de Havilland's Robin Hood is my favourite, I also love that crazy Robin Hood. Men In Tights is fantastic.
Theatre Tillsonburg Teens are offering up another version, written especially for the family, of the classic tale: The Somewhat True Tale of Robin Hood by Mary Lynn Dobson.
Robin, (played by Jared Haley) finds it difficult to be humble, for after all he is a swashbuckling, egocentric super-hero. Dressed in classic green, he leads his unusual band of merry men on a hysterical trip through Sherwood Forest, on his legendary, never-ending quest to aid the needy. He does battle with the delectably evil, gold hoarding Prince John [Steven Dodd], and his haughty henchman and ever scheming, Sheriff of Nottingham (Steven Pihokker), who would rather bowl a strike that hit a bull’s eye.
You can’t tell this story with out the lovely damsel-in-distress (who is obsessed with skin conditions) and who becomes Robin’s only true, love. As ever, Maid Marion (Allyson Buchanan) remains true to her champion as she assists his crusade.
Included in the band of Merry Men, is the good-natured Town Gal (Katie McCoy), who manages to make her way into every scene, whether she belongs there or not!
The Merry Men are played by Nathan Charby, Rebecca McNeil, Nadia Fardella, Haley McLean, Alyssa Wice, Elizabeth Shearer and Ladies by Emma Dans, Savannah Mercer, Emma Martens, Caleigh Foster.
One review I read noted: “It was a frantically funny, retelling of the classic. Combine them with an expandable band of spoon-wielding Merry Men who’s collective IQs equal six and you've got an irreverent jaunt through Sherwood Forest you won't soon forget!”
There are lessons for everyone in this telling of the tale, including Robin, who discovers that even heroes have a few important life lessons to learn.
Leading this cast of merry teens is Director Sarah Sandor as well as Stage Manager Miranda Harrison.
Overseeing all the teens to make sure they don't burn down the Playhouse, and teach them some tricks of the trade, is the courageous Melanie Watts, who once many moons ago was a Theatre Teen.
You are going to be quite amazed by the artistic talent of this backstage crew: Jordan Harrison, Evan Buchanan, Sephora Sandor, Emma Cox, Jeremy Hamm, Logan Gibson, Taea Davis, Vicky Steer.
I had the pleasure of teaching Sephora, Emma, Jordan and Jeremy how to paint dungeon and trees, and I was astonished at what a fine job they did!
Now if you want to find out what would happen if Monty Python and Mel Brooks decided to write a play about Robin Hood, you might like to get your tickets right away. This is a great show for your children and grandchildren. All shows are at the Otter Valley Playhouse on Potters Road on August 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th. Curtain is at 7 p.m. which earlier than normal so the kids can come, except for Sunday the 24th which is a 2 p.m. matinee.
Tickets for adults, seniors, teens and children are all $10 excellent, at the Station Arts Centre, our partner, who graciously helps with our Box Office. You can also call Box Office at (519) 688-3026.
The play is general admission, so you might want to get there early to get the best seats! Honestly, there are no bad seats at the Playhouse, but you might like the whole family to sit together!