Can the story of Robin Hood be told without a cast of men in tights? A new stage adaptation of the story in North Vancouver intends to find out.
The wealth-redistributionist tales of Robin Hood and his merry band take centre stage on the grounds of Presentation House Theatre, in the company’s first-ever summer outdoor theatre program.
The "irreverent" retelling by The Lakeside Players takes place July 16-23, and casts the story's beloved characters in a new light, and looser pants.
Together they tackle the chronic issues of injustice and inequality through laughter, music and adventure in a lighthearted summer theatre experience for all ages, according to a statement.
"The story of Robin Hood remains timeless because wealth inequality seems to be a timeless issue," said Jack Rennie, playwright, director and co-founder of The Lakeside Players.
But the idea of a righteous hero pulling a community to salvation no longer seems to fit, he added. "This adaptation of Robin Hood emphasizes the power of community to elicit change and perhaps knock down the Sheriff of Nottinghams in our own lives."
The play features North Shore performers Nevada Banks, Bronwyn Churcher and Brodie Nicholls
It was written by a team including Jack Rennie and composer Landon Doak, recipients of Dora Mavor Moore Awards for their work on Bad Hats Theatre's acclaimed production of Peter Pan.
Designer Rachel Forbes's set and costume designs have been seen on stages across Canada, including this summer in Robin Hood, Harlem Duet at Bard on the Beach, Doctor’s Dilemma at the Shaw Festival, and Death and the King’s Horseman at the Stratford Festival.
Robin Hood
Where: Presentation House Theatre grounds, 333 Chesterfield Ave.
When: July 16, 17, 22 and 23
Cost: Tickets priced on sliding scale for $15, $18, $22. Available on PHT website.
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