Writer and Director: Ruth Cooper and Andrea Heaton
Musical Direction: Claire-Marie O’Conner
Fidget Theatre is renowned for its ability to create playful and witty theatre, offering a warm welcome to children and families alike. Established in 2015, the company employs collaborative processes that encourage thoughtful inquiries into the world we inhabit, engaging audiences with both imagination and heart. Their performances invite active participation, fostering a live, collective experience that is both entertaining and meaningful.
Performing in theatres, libraries, and various community spaces across the UK, Fidget Theatre has successfully toured to diverse audiences while collaborating with exceptional creatives. Their latest production, Robyn Hood, exemplifies their commitment to imaginative storytelling. This playful and musical show centres on Robyn, a little girl living in a bustling city who finds solace in her small patch of green land where she constructs a den – a magical retreat for dreaming of woodland adventures.
However, when developers threaten her cherished den, Robyn escapes into her fantastical forest world where she becomes an audacious hero alongside her brave band of outlaws. Together they confront the mean Sheriff, imparting valuable lessons about courage and community. The cast features Adrian Spencer as Robyn, Charlie Limm as Scarlett and Mrs Annie Marion, along with Richard Kay portraying Much and The Sheriff. Through Robyn Hood, Fidget Theatre continues to inspire young audiences to embrace their inner heroes while highlighting the importance of protecting our shared spaces.
The production of Robyn Hood by Fidget Theatre showcases a cast that is certainly not lacking in talent or enthusiasm. The performers engage in multi-roling, adeptly singing and playing musical instruments throughout the performance, which adds a dynamic element to the experience. The characters are crafted to be playful and balanced, effectively engaging older audience members while ensuring that younger theatre-goers are not frightened.
However, it is worth noting that the storyline may prove somewhat confusing for younger audiences. The transitions between slapstick silliness and period prose can feel clunky, potentially leading to moments of bewilderment. A more distinct differentiation through costume changes could have alleviated this confusion; the use of similar base costumes with minor alterations did not sufficiently assist the audience in following character transitions.
The incorporation of recorded music between scenes and as background enhancement is commendable; however, when performers transitioned to live music onstage, there was a noticeable drop in energy. This shift often resulted in performers being somewhat restricted behind their instruments, limiting their ability to connect with the audience fully. Additionally, the lack of amplification for live music contributed to a decrease in volume that detracted from the overall impact.
Ultimately, Robyn Hood appears uncertain about its musical identity. A clearer decision regarding whether to utilise all live music – potentially with amplified backing – or maintain an entirely recorded score would enhance cohesion within the production. Furthermore, while the set design by Emma Williams remains simplistic as Robyn’s childhood space throughout the performance, it could benefit from additional elements that would facilitate scene changes and aid young audiences in following the narrative more closely.
Nonetheless, moments of audience participation are welcomed and enjoyed by children attending this production. These cleverly orchestrated interactions are seamlessly integrated into the storyline, making attendees feel like integral components of Robyn’s adventure. Such engagement undoubtedly enriches their theatre experience despite some narrative inconsistencies present within the piece.
Overall, it is a fun piece that engages its audience with lively performances and creative interpretations of well-known characters. However, while the production possesses charm and entertainment value, it may not be one that audiences feel compelled to rush out and see immediately. The narrative unfolds in a manner that is enjoyable yet perhaps lacks the urgency or depth that would elevate it to a must-see status.
Reviewed on 27th July 2025
