Review for SHERWOOD, MainStage Irving-Las Colinas

Review for Sherwood

MainStage Irving-Las Colinas

At Dupree Theatre in Irving Arts Center

Reviewer: Natalie Shaw

One of my favorite animated films growing up (and still, today) is Disney's 1973 version of Robin Hood. I must've watched it a dozen times or more while I was in elementary school. As I write this, I can actually hear the tune in my head that the rooster narrator whistles as he makes his way across the screen of my old television, explaining how Robin Hood and his team of bandits rob the rich to save the poor from the selfish Prince John, who has raised the taxes so high that the entire land has to choose whether or not to feed their families, or pay their taxes. I imagined myself as Maid Marion, being swept away by Robin's gallantry and saved from an arranged marriage with a despicable man. What a hero! 

Sherwood, however, was slightly different; a much better kind of different. One where Marion (played by Ariana Stephens), herself, is among the bandits, and bravely stands up to Prince John (played by Josh Radde), and her betrothed, Sir Guy of Gisbourne (played by Robert Shores). In no way does our playwright, Ken Ludwig downplay the heroic attributes of our beloved Robin Hood (played by Carlos Brumfield) in order to raise Marian up, either. This couple will ultimately change the world together-- and I think that's true in every strong marriage. Neither individual in a relationship must be the weaker person in order for the other to be elevated; I love that Ludwig makes this one of his main points, as well! Furthermore, all of this is done through several forms of comedy. I found elements of word play, romantic comedy, situational comedy and even slapstick. Ludwig gives us a plethora of ways to laugh! And, boy, did we laugh!  

I can't say enough positive words about this cast. There were smooth transitions among the shifts in energy, movement, vocal range, vocal pitch, and characterization. The pace of performance was steady and stimulating, with exciting swordfights (coordinated by Adam Kullman) and schemes to be unleashed. Not one actor dropped the energy or allowed a scene to fall flat. And, as scenes change rapidly in this play, it was obvious that the level of work going on backstage was also stellar, thanks to stage manger Cathy Parks Bardin. Director, Andi Allen brings us a lively and extraordinary production with this cast and crew! In this particular production, there was an electric chemistry among the cast that resonated within the entire theatre. With six actors in total, each person played a primary role, but played a handful of "fill-in" roles, as well. For example, Prince John was also King Richard. (Talk about quick costume changes!) Additionally, four wooden human cut-outs where painted, placed on caster wheels, and used as an impromptu ensemble-- they too had many quick costume changes-- all of which was absolutely hysterical! There's one more character that I should mention in this play-- you! Several times, the audience is asked to participate in response, and even in standing, at times. You must play your part in the fun as well! (But, please remember, if you're NOT invited to participate in a particular scene, it's best to remember your theatre etiquette and assume you're offstage at this point. Interrupting the kissing scene with, "Get it, Robin!" is just plain awkward for everybody. And, yes, this actually happened in the performance I attended. *Tisk, tisk*.)

Another element of this production that deserves a pat-on-the-back is the set design (done by Wendy-Searcy-Wood) and carpentry of the set (done by Trevor Smith). The set itself was a character on it's own! There were more play areas for the actors than I could count. Among these were, a ramp, steps in a circular form, steps in a square form, tall trees that were used to a cast shadows with accented light, trap doors, and an elevated platform that had a sliding door for surprise entrances and exits. Such fun!! It was refreshing to see a set with so much versatility, which, I regret to say is often lost in design and function. 

Two actors, that I particularly want to highlight are Ariana Stephens and Josh Radde. Upon my interview with them, I was surprised to see that both of them spent time training and performing in Chicago. Mr. Radde has spent much of his time doing improv and comedy, while Ms. Stephens has honed in on more dramatic roles, such as Portia in Shakespeare's Merchant of Venice (a role dear to my heart, since I have played it, as well.) While interpreting the character of Prince John in Sherwood, Mr. Radde found many ways to accent his facial expressions and vocal inflections with much comedic style, a choice that truly brought this character to life in such an enjoyable way! Mr. Radde stated that he "enjoys making people laugh," and we appreciate that his efforts are so greatly effective. As one who is just as effective in her style of acting, Ms. Stephens brings us a heroic, strong-willed Marion in Sherwood. Ms. Stephens describes Marion as "stubborn but compassionate," and similar to herself when it comes to "[having] to choose a side" when deciding to either follow traditions or follow your heart."  Ms. Stephen's grace and articulation of movement and voice are that of one who has been trained in Shakespearean acting, which works extremely well for her interpretation of Marion. 

Sherwood is thrilling! With bandits, swordfights, romance, heroism and triumph over evil, there is something for everyone! Don't miss your chance to see this exciting comedy at MainStage Irving-Las Colinas! Recommended for ages 14 and up.