★ ★ ★ ★

Reviewer - Samantha

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review.

Contains: Flashing Lights and Haze.

Robin Hood and The Major Oak at Derby Theatre has been brilliantly adapted by Deborah McAndrews. Based on the classic, much-loved story featuring the heroic archer Robin Hood, we are transported to a modern-day tale. Most of us will already know the all singing, all dancing Disney version but this tale brought so much more to the stage.

The Sheriff of Nottingham hears about an ancient prophecy, which he is sure he can use against Robin Hood to defeat him once and for all after being guided by his aid Adam Aquarius – he is a fantastic aid because he’s extremely funny (the Sherriff might not like that so much). Once the secrets are unveiled, it’s up to Robin Hood and his Merry Band to ensure the Sheriff does not win!

If you are not aware, this particular show is British Sign Language (BSL) integrated, which is the theatre’s fourth show and my second. The cast is made up of both deaf and hearing actors which warms my heart. Director Sarah Brigham has made sure this show is inclusive and I am pleased to say it is exactly that. I want to thank the cast for signing and speaking on behalf of their fellow members because this ensured the audience was engaged at all times. I found I was drawn into those signing because it was done so gracefully when the music was being played.

As soon as the show began, I knew I was going to love every second of the details executed. The scenery was great, I laughed multiple times, and the way the captions were displayed was creative and aesthetically pleasing to look at.

The script was clever as they made several jokes about a few deaf cast members (Phillipa Russell, Mia Ward) not being able to hear actors speaking (Dominic Rye) – it really made the audience chuckle, and I thought comfortably broke down barriers. I must add that Laura Goulden (Tuck) has a fantastic stage presence and her signing with Mia was really interesting to watch. The story was so different to the classic Robin Hood, but I don’t think that took anything away from the original. It was filled with humour, great songs, brilliant actors. The bond between all of the cast was portrayed extremely well on stage, as it was clear they are there to support one another.

Visiting Derby Theatre is always an enjoyable experience. Having previously seen Becky Barry (Roger the Reeve) perform, she does not disappoint. She stood out instantly to me. Her talent is incredible and her work is multi-disciplinary. Becky must have an incredible memory as she’s great at remembering her lines, narrating Adam Bassett’s (Sherriff) as well as performing BSL interpretations for others. Oh, and not forgetting her flute skills too. Becky’s energy always stands out, which makes it a much stronger performance and when you go and watch this show, or any other that Becky is in, you’ll see that this is not just a job for her, it’s her life.

The story was so different to the classic Robin Hood, but I don’t think that took anything away from the original. It was filled with humour, great songs, brilliant actors and interesting costumes. I loved how nature was quite a focus in this show, it relayed an important message that we must look after our ecosystem, especially our trees. Robin Hood not only stole from the rich and gave to the poor, but he also looked after our forests.

The only negative comment I can make about this performance is down to the sound. Whilst the band and Alana Dale were singing ‘14th Century’ on both occasions, the music was uncomfortably loud. I was sat on row E, and it was far too loud for me, I was concerned for others at the front too, especially those nearer to the speakers. This spoilt it a little as the sound was perfect throughout the rest of the performance. If it was done purposely to represent an actual rock concert, you aced that but personally, I would look into reducing the sound levels.

I would highly recommend going to see this show during the Easter holidays, it’s perfect for children, families, and couples.