Somerton's Robin Hood & the Babes in the Wood

Somerton Dramatic Society presents

Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood 

My Sunday afternoon journey now takes me to Somerton. It is here their dramatic society are presenting Robin Hood and the Babes in the Wood.

Written and directed by the gifted Matthew Maisey I knew immediately the local audiences were in for a real comedic treat and how right I was!

From start to finish this was most certainly a ‘Golden Shot’ production (although I guess very few will remember the TV programme from the 70’s, except me!)

Casting was impeccable and here was the most talented troupe that brought so much life, fear and comedy into this pantomime. You are all to be congratulated.

This was without doubt a ‘laugh a minute’ show too. I believe performing comedy at its best is a gifted talent. It is here where you most certainly scored.

There were fresh ideas within this script that I have never  seen performed locally before. The archery contest, cream crackers and whistling, some Keep Fit and demonstrating how a wooden spoon can be used apart from baking a cake. Mary Berry would be furious! Excellent visual comedy at its best.

Sets were incredible, especially the opening. If only I had brought a bucket for the horse dung my rhubarb may have won a nomination too!

Well done black gang. All scene changes were silently and swiftly executed although there were slight pauses between scenes where continuity lost its momentum. Observation and not a criticism by the way! Sound and lighting added appeal to this production with some hilarious sound effects including plenty of ‘wind in the willows’! Thanks to the technical team Ian and Angie.

Although giving compelling performances I felt mic’s were required for Alan-a-Dale and the Babes.

A lovely choice of songs sung with total confidence and feeling, and from the male principals too! Most impressed.

Great work Josie and Kayleigh on choreography. Simple but very effective. You had an extremely small stage to work with but the variety of moves certainly paid off.

Costumes, wigs and teeth were aplenty adding much humour and vibrancy to the show.

You certainly had a merry audience on your side too!

This show targetted everything you could wish for from a village panto.

I raise my bow and salute you on a Somerton Spectacular.

Well done to you all!

Nigel Ford

Moderator