HOOD
NEXT GENERATION PRODUCTIONS
THE REGAL COMMUNITY THEATRE, BATHGATE
FRIDAY 25th OCTOBER 2002

Review by Charles Earley

This modern retelling of the Robin Hood legend was a first for this young and talented company, in this it's Scottish premier. It demonstrated to an appreciative and enthusiastic audience just how adventurous a young cast can be. There were some brilliant performances from the principal members which included Colin Povey as the bold and dashing Robin. Colin was perfectly cast in this role and was in excellent voice, as was Sheena Walinck in this role as the lovely Maid Marion, in which she demonstrated her considerable singing abilities. Greig Paterson, as the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, was quite outstanding in his role, one which he appeared to relish, as did Barry Jones, performing very well as Guy of Gisborne.
Beth handled difficult lyrics to perfection in the lovely `Autumn Rain Song', and there were some brilliant cameo roles, such as Craig Potter's portrayal of the Friar and MacGregor Scott as King Richard.
I particularly enjoyed the performance given by the little Irish lad who played the part of one of Robin's merry band of men.
The music and lyrics by Andy Brown and Steve Williamson respectively, were modem and although, on occasions, some of the numbers were a little too long and repetitive, they were clearly challenging to the singers. There were some well executed dance routines in numbers such as 'The Silver Arrow' and `You Could Do Worse Than Be Married To Him'.
This is the first time that such a young company has undertaken this production and it was clear that its members were more than competent.
Congratulations to Producer/ Musical Director, Steve Edwards and also to 'Next Generation'- didn't they do well !!!!!!!!!

Many thanks Charles for a lively review