“TO START THE SHOW, GRAB YOUR QUIVER AND BOW…”
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PUBLICITY PHOTOS
PUBLICITY VIDEO
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PRODUCTION PHOTOS
AUDIENCE COMMENTS
“At last I get the chance to thank you for ‘Robin Hood’. I thought ’Rapunzel’ and ‘Peter Pan’ couldn’t be topped and there you were. It was equal to most and better than many professional pantos we have seen. Every single person involved was at the top of their form. An absolute joy from start to finish.”
“Thoroughly enjoyed this panto last night. Absolutely superb! Proud to see my gorgeous other half getting into the spirit of things and seeing her back on the stage! What a fabulous and talented cast. The whole group were amazing. [We] haven’t laughed so much in a long time! Well done Dryburn Theatrical Workshop on a fantastic production. Can’t wait to see many more!! 👏👏👏”
“I said this last year (as my Facebook memories reminded me) and I have to say it again this year. As someone who doesn’t like pantomimes this is one of the best shows I’ve seen for a while and I loved this evening.”
“That was brilliant 🤩 Absolutely loved it! So funny! Thank you so much”
“Fantastic last night, we all really enjoyed it, soooo funny”
“What a fantastic panto this afternoon- the best I’ve seen in ages - well done 👏”
“Just come home totally uplifted and aching jaws from laughing. Fantastic show brilliant actors dancers and singing. Thank you all for your hard work and dedication ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐”
“You guys were amazing last night 👌 Harrison and I loved every minute 🤣 The script was brilliant! Everyone played their part to the T. Well done Dryburn, you totally smashed it out of the park.”
“Absolutely brilliant I’ve never laughed so much can’t wait for next years 🤩”
“Loved it! Never laughed so much. Thank you all for a fab show”
“We saw the 2.30pm Sunday show and it was absolutely amazing once again, cried laughing! Haven’t laughed so much in a long time! Excellent therapy! Thank you, you did brilliantly!”
“Excellent... the humour, music, dancing GREAT!!!”
“We were there last night. What a fantastic production 👏”
“Was there Saturday afternoon and had a great time!! Loved the saucy jokes, cast laughter and the couple of c#€k-ups! Keep up the good work!!”
“Absolutely fabulous show. So funny. Well done to everyone who works so hard”
“Thank you all for a wonderful afternoon's entertainment. We loved it”
“Absolutely fantastic! You were all brilliant 👏”
“It’s the best panto [I’ve] seen this Christmas season … it was better than the Sunderland Empire by far!”
PROGRAMME
NODA REPORT
Pantomime season continues with my penultimate trip to panto-land and what a trip it was! This January 2025, audiences were treated to an exceptional performance of "Robin Hood" by Dryburn Theatrical Workshop. The production was nothing short of spectacular, showcasing the immense talent and dedication of all involved. As a representative of NODA (National Operatic and Dramatic Association), it is my pleasure to provide a report of this outstanding production, despite not even being a panto fan! This wasn’t just a pantomime however it really was an exceptional professional standard production.
From the moment the curtains rose, it was evident that the director, Michelle Coulson, had worked her socks off with an exceptional cast to bring Tom Whalley’s tale of “Robin Hood” to the stage. The pacing was impeccable thoughout, ensuring that the audience remained captivated throughout the entire show, without any awkward moments or lags in pace.
The production values were equally impressive. The set from Border Studios and FX Productions, was a masterpiece transporting the audience to the heart of Sherwood Forest with its intricate details and lush greenery. The use of very clever lighting and sound effects by Hi-Lights Theatre Services further enhanced the immersive experience, creating an atmosphere of both suspense and enchantment. I actually wrote “excellent SFX” twice, as their use was slick and professional with the “Apple Watch” scene going down in history I think! Costumes were excellent and complimented every part of the production.
The cast of "Robin Hood" were uniformly strong, with standout performances from genuinely everyone. Claire Archer, in the titular role of Robin Hood, delivered a charismatic and compelling portrayal of the legendary hero. Her chemistry and humour with Maid Marian, played by the talented Emma Coulson, was excellent.
Phil Stabler, who played the role of the Sheriff of Nottingham with a perfect blend of villainy and charm. His nuanced performance brought a new dimension to the character, making him both formidable and hilarious and it was nice to see a villain in a panto getting their own musical number!
Special mention must go to Joseph Coulson playing the funy man again, Silly Willy. Joe is one of the most versatile performaers on our NODA North circuit but he excels as the funny guy. He was superb! Constantly had the audience in stitches and if he’s not covered in bruises this week I’ll be baffled, he was hit by drum sticks, footballs, fell off benches, whacked EVERYWHERE and still was beaming at the end. Blooming brilliant Joe! Nanny Fanny Flapjack was brought to us by Lee Passmoor who’s really stepped up dramatically in the dame role this year. Delivery, comedy, costumes, timing all were execptional, well done Lee.
Supporting roles were all equally as strong, with Gary Eglington playing a hilarious dry Friar Tuck, Jessica Kerridge a gorgeous Sherwood Sprite, Erin Boyle cracking me up again with the facial hair playing Alan-A-Dale, Andy Smith playing Little John, Phil Martin as Much the Miller and Kind Richard, with the comedy due Scratch-It and Sniff being played by Charlotte Humes and Pauline Wright. Absolutely superb every one of you.
The supporting cast, including the various townsfolk, were equally impressive, each bringing their own unique flair to the production.
The choreography, by Rebecca Scott, was a highlight. The energetic and well-executed dance numbers added a lively and dynamic element to the show, perfectly complementing the narrative, were well polished and I especially loved the light bar finale and “Bad Side”. “It’s Raining (Merry) Men”, “Hello Dolly”, “Revolting Children”, “Because I Knew You”, and “Texas” all got a log in my little book so clearly I was thoroughly enjoying the musical numbers as well as the production as a whole!
The audience's reaction was overwhelmingly positive, with enthusiastic applause and standing ovations which speak for themselves. It was clear that the production had struck a chord with those in attendance, leaving a lasting impression and generating much buzz and excitement.
In conclusion, the Dryburn Theatrical Workshop's production of "Robin Hood" was an exceptional professional level production that showcased the immense talent and dedication of everyone involved. From the innovative direction and stunning production values to the outstanding performances and captivating choreography, every aspect of the show was executed to the highest standard. This production of "Robin Hood" not only entertained and delighted audiences but also set a new benchmark for excellence in amateur theatre. I eagerly anticipate their future productions and have no doubt that they will continue to deliver performances of the highest calibre.
I am still trying to get “WILLY YOUR WEAPON” out of my head however…..
Author: Helen Abraham
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