Classy panto shenanigans: Ashley Campbell (King Richard) and Michael Bertenshaw (Prince John). Photo credit Robert Day
Theatre: Theatre Royal Stratford East
Play: Robin Hood
Writers: Trish Cooke and Robert Hyman
Director: Kerry Michael
Review by Patsy Antoine
It’s panto season (oh, no it isn’t, oh yes it is…) and the team which created the Olivier Award-nominated Dick Whittington takes Robin Hood’s well-worn tale, adds a fictional East End district and injects it with urban cool.
Prepare yourself for all the usual panto shenanigans. Opportunities for a good old boo are aplenty, thanks to Michael Bertenshaw’s fantastically wicked Prince John.
There’s the usual audience participation – free sweets for the little (and big) ones, singalongs, an invitation to Maid Marion’s wedding, as well the major part we, the audience, play in Prince John’s downfall. All of which means there is, without doubt, lots for the children to love.
But that’s not at the expense of the adults. There are rare moments where writers Trish Cooke and Robert Hyman have slipped in touches of over-the-heads-of-kids’ humour which will keep parents happy too.
Diverse cast and production: Derek Elroy (Nurse) and Richard Sumitro (Sheriff). Photo credit Robert Day
Derek Elroy is hilarious as the Jamaican-born Nurse – the Grand Dame of the piece – in a performance that’s without doubt the highlight of the show. His rendition of Gregory Isaac’s hit Night Nurse is a surprise nod to the reggae fans in the house, and his ad-libs are both sharp and priceless.
The cast is as diverse in its casting as it is in its production – from tap dancing to street dance, hip hop to reggae – all of which makes for refreshing and inclusive theatre.
It’s a little long at two and a half hours, but it is still a satisfyingly good old romp.
Robin Hood is at Theatre Royal Stratford East until 23 January 2016.