A Pantomime by Ben Crocker
Directed by LYNDSEY BETTS Choreography by HOLLY HARRIS
Welcome to Sherwood Forest, where mischief meets magic and justice wears green tights!
This year’s CODS pantomime brings together two beloved tales, the swashbuckling legend of Robin Hood and the tender-hearted story of the Babes in the Wood.
It’s a mash-up of heroism, hilarity and heart, with a generous sprinkle of camp, chaos and community spirit. It’s a tale of good versus evil, a celebration of togetherness, of found families, unlikely friendships and the joy of rallying around a common cause (especially if that cause involves defeating a villain with fabulous fashion sense!).
This is the fourth pantomime that CODs have presented in the Crediton Old Town Hall. With a small stage and somewhat restricted access it has the feel of a village hall. The Panto was very well supported with full houses. With the audience so close to the stage, and the small children on mats in front of the seated audience, it creates an atmosphere for good participation in the traditional pantomime way. Lots of “He’s behind you! And “Oh no, he isn’t. Oh yes, he is…… “
To quote Lyndsey, our Director …”I am especially immensely proud of the children in this production all of whom are members of our latest venture, CODS Youth Theatre Academy (CYTA) and it has been a joy watching them make memories and forge bonds on stage. They are all absolute stars!”
The Babes in the Wood
A little history…
The Babes in the Wood story was first published as a folk ballad in 1595 in Norwich. The song tells the tragic story of two orphaned siblings and their greedy uncle. It really was a quite gruesome tale.
Robin Hood was a legendary outlaw from English medieval folklore, traditionally associated with Sherwood Forest. Early ballads also date back to the 15th century, depicting him as a hero who robbed from the rich to give to the poor.
The two stories were first formally joined in a play at London’s Covent Garden Theatre in 1864. The original “Babes in the Woods” story was considered too grim for Victorian children. Adding Robin Hood provided a hero who could rescue the children, giving the story a happy ending.
The wicked uncle of the children was often cast as the Sheriff of Nottingham, Robin Hood’s primary enemy. By the late 1800s, this hybrid version became a staple of British Christmas pantomime, often featuring other characters like Maid Marian, Little John, and Friar Tuck. Over the years a number of alternative versions of the story evolved based in different regions of England.
More Panto pics …..
A great deal of thanks must go to the production team.
Hours of work with costumes, lighting, construction and set painting. Also thank you to the backstage team for coordinating and helping the show to run smoothly.
Oh yes you did!
On stage or back stage, any production is a complicated and intricate team effort. In the run up to Christmas your efforts with this Pantomime provided a really special run up to the Christmas celebrations. Robin Hood and the Babes in the Woods meant laughter and big smiles all round.
Well done to you all.
And finally …..
Thank you to our sponsors and advertisers.
We do appreciate the help you all give the Society.
Thank you to Bristows of Devon for all the fudge.
Thank you to Ashgrove Kitchhens,
Jonathan Wood Veterinary Surgeons,
Gilbert Stevens Solicitors,
The Dive In Cafe Crediton Leisure Centre,
Planet Play.
And last of all …..thank you to all the children who told Father Christmas their Christmas Secrets.
He really hopes all your good wishes came true.
