Review of Norwich panto Robin Hood


18 December 2009 15:00



Robin Hood, Theatre Royal, Norwich.



There were plenty of Merry Men, Women and Children at Norwich Theatre Royal last night as this year's spectacular pantomime proved to be Robin Good.

Robin Hood is visually gorgeous, packed with energetic dance routines, slapstick, comedy and romance - I think it's the best pantomime I've seen in Norwich bar none.

Panto stalwart Richard Gauntlett who has written, directed and stars as the irrepressible Dame Dotty is brilliant and has the audience eating out of his hand, as ever.

The supporting cast doesn't have a single weak link: Andre Vincent is a loveable Much, Helen Atkinson-Wood is fabulous as the Sheriff of Nottingham's controlling mother Mandragoria, Danny Seward looks great in tights and has a genuinely good voice and Danielle Kelly, elevated from last year's chorus to this year's lead as Maid Marian, sings like an angel.

Tony Slattery is the Sheriff, a cuddly baddy whose entrance is camper than a row of tents, and I loved him (he's promised me a pair of his tights at the end of the run. I'm holding him to it).

There are some great set pieces: the brilliant take on the 12 Days of Christmas, the bathroom water extravaganza, the sweetest Twiggles and Boggles from BeWILDerwood (well done, the Central School of Dancing and Performing Arts) meeting Much and the glittering finale.

At two hours plus, it's quite long, but the time absolutely flies by which is testament to Richard's tight writing, wonderful production and a cast who look as if they're having the time of their lives.

For an injection of Christmas goodwill, it doesn't come better than this.

The pantomime runs until January 17. Tickets cost between £5 and £18.50 (discounts and concessions available), contact the box office on Norwich 630000 or visit www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk .

Stacia Briggs.

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