John Kyrle High School and Sixth Form Centre have proved once again, that drama thrives within their school and that a new pool of talent seems to emerge every year.

Their latest production, a pantomime called ‘Robin’s Hoodie,’ excellently written and directed by Mr Pritchard, was a triumph of comically bad jokes, familiar tunes, and notable performances.

Robin’s Hoodie is a twist on the classic story of the outlaw Robin Hood, who is accompanied on his journey by the real hero of the story - “his best mate Dave.”

Robin Hood was played by Caitlin Gurney on Wednesday evening’s performance, who took on the somewhat unheroic role with a likeable charm and good comic timing.

Ryan Ward, who played heroic best mate Dave, had a clear voice, and provided lots of comedy for the audience, especially his frustration with the rhyming Minstrel, played admirably by Cat Harrison, who delivered her many rhyming couplets with ease.

The object of Robin Hood’s affection, is of course the classic beauty, Maid Marion, played by the sassy Immi Abbott. Her singing voice shone in ‘Everything I Do, I Do It For You,’ alongside her sweet maid Betty, played by Hollie Owen on Wednesday evening.

Friar Tuck (Jack Hall) also had a very comic voice and great timing, and the audience warmed to him immediately. His head cap accidentally came off at one point, which was rather funny and fitting of a pantomime.

The trees, unhappy and resigned to what they are, provided many bad tree puns, played “I spy with my wooden eye,” and sung a solemn and sweet rendition of ‘It’s Not That Easy Being Green.’

A stand out for me was the antagonist, the Sheriff of Nottingham, played by Gideon Harris. He had a very clear voice, despite being mocked for his lisp, and great acting, especially in his annoyance that “nobody understands” him.

The inept Prince John was eccentrically played by Evan Thomas, who gave energy and likeability to his character.

The incompetent guards, Bashley and Ashley, (Flynn Piper and Ben Heyes) were excellent comic relief, and worked well as a duo.

The Old Hag, played by Ruby Byrne, and Terry the Torturer (George Aubrey) were also both characterised very well.

A guest appearance from former student and assistant director, Zoe Hutton, was also welcomed as the absent King Richard, who comically returned through the aisles of the audience, to save the day.

The small pit band, consisting of students and led by the accomplished musical director, Mrs Blake, were great at accompanying the performance, at a nicely balanced volume level controlled by sound technician, Mr Davis.

My only criticsm would be that it was often difficult to hear the lyrics of the songs, as the pupils’ singing was rather quiet.

The costumes in general were excellent, and the set, although simplistic, was effective. The archery competition, assisted by quick lighting cues, was also witty and unpredictable.

The script made this performance, and it has to be said that the biggest laugh was received by the villager that delivered the line, “No votes and you’re running the country? Who do you think you are, Theresa May?”