Robin Hood, Robin Hood riding through the fens.
The Co-op Juniors Theatre Company turn Woodbridge’s Seckford Theatre into the 12th Century glades of Sherwood Forest for two shows this Sunday.
First presented at the Ipswich Regent in 1992, the musical has been re-imagined for a new audience. What hasn’t changed is the group’s signature song and dance numbers, which are sprinkled throughout the fast moving story.
Prince John and the evil Sheriff of Nottingham plan to prevent King Richard’s return and national folk hero Robin and his merry men are the only people to stand up to them.
The production team updated the original production to give the cast of seven-13 year olds a chance to tackle a full-length show staged at a professional theatre.
“With a cast of 50 and nearly 300 costumes the show is pretty ambitious,” said producers Jeannie Ingram and Pauline Walker.
“We’re fortunate to have our rehearsals on the actual set built in our East of England Co-op studios in Ipswich,” added director Thomas Haigh.
“That prepares the cast for when we move into the theatre this weekend to rehearse with lighting and sound for two shows on Sunday at 2pm and 6pm.”
Nigel Virley, the musical director and writer, has worked closely with choreographer Kerry Sayer to recreate the magic of Robin Hood.
The show features many large-scale dances set to his original compositions alongside well-known musical numbers.
“Seeing our cast grow in confidence and ability during rehearsals is a real delight,” said Nigel. “We have high standards and they never fail to live up to them.”
The rest of the Co-op Juniors Theatre Company is busy rehearsing for the smash-hit musical Sister Act, due at Ipswich’s New Wolsey Theatre from July 12 for six performances.
Based on the hit movie starring Whoopi Goldberg, lounge singer Deloris Van Cartier sees her mobster beau commit murder.
Relocated for her protection, she’s disguised as a nun in a convent where she proceeds to upend the quiet lives of the resident sisters.
Tickets for both shows are available from the New Wolsey Theatre now.
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