REVIEW | The True Adventures of Marian and Robin Hood, Barn Theatre
★★★★
Written by Eliott Sheppard
As mentioned by Artistic Director Iwan Lewis at the closing moments of The Barn Theatre's latest production, The True Adventures of Marian and Robin Hood, the venue champions professional debuts in every single one of their shows, whether that may be on or off stage. However, if you told me that two of the Marian and Robin Hood company on stage, Lauren Ava - Thomas (Little John) and Ethan Reid (Odo - Sheriff of Nottingham) were making their professional debuts, I would not have believed it for a moment. For what The Barn has conjured up this festive period is one of the strongest ensembles I have seen all year round. However, that's no surprise considering the constant care and dedication that the whole Cirencester team nurture into every production they stage.
Whilst we think we may know the story of Robin Hood and Maid Marian, Adapter Alan Pollock has gifted this company with a script full of raucous fun and joy, where Director Francesca Goodridge lends hand to Movement also which marries together beautifully, allowing the whole stage to fizz with boundless energy that makes you want to join on stage as actors swing from ropes and create an enchanting world of wonders. The highest praise for this stellar production must be thrown towards Dylan Townley and their remarkable score and Musical Direction in which I would bow to if had the chance; as we take to our seats, Catrin Mai Edwards (Green Man) is already serenading us with the harp, but it's the lyrics and constant thrive of the melodies throughout every song that makes our hearts jump with the sweet music played by the actor-muso's before our eyes.
With a few mentions to the cast already, I would be a fool to not mention the whole Ensemble. As the merry men, Theo Diedrick (Will Scarlett), Rachel Hammond (Alan a Dale), Emily Panes (Much The Miller), with the aforementioned Lauren Ava-Thomas, bring leaps of charisma and laughter with such tight-knit chemistry between them all. It's Ava-Thomas who steals every shining moment as Little John, recieving appraisal from the audience every time. Then you have the leading lady herself, Marian; played by Izzy Neish, I was truly fixed on her every word and emotion whilst she guided us on this beguiling tale, whilst Alex White (Robin Hood) gave a strong performance whilst battling against Ethan Reid's hysterical portrayal of the Sheriff. All company are authentically dressed by Costume Designer Alfie Heywood, who has also done a tremendous job designing a set that allows the company to create their playground of fun.
Heading back to the creatine team, Jessica Brigham's lighting transports us to different locations so effortlessly, each having its own unique atmosphere, which is so important when the script jumps back and forth to many sites. Whilst there are a few darkened moments which could have done with a bit of more face lighting to track our heroines, it's a very demanding tech-heavy production, and so credit where credit's due, which must also be said for Benjamin Collins AV Design which adds so much scope and realistic features that carry the story along swiftly.
With sold out performances already plastered among this short run, a trip to The Barn this festive season is a must for the whole family, if you want to be whisked away from your troubles for two hours, and embrace your inner child, with stunning effects and a band of merry men who will make you smile from ear to ear, all the way home.
The True Adventures of Marian and Robin Hood at Barn Theatre until 31 December. Book your tickets here.
