THIS November pantomime returns to Wotton-under-Edge when the dramatic society stages its production of Robin Hood and His Merry Man. The panto tells the tale of Robin Hood and his faithful sidekick Merry, the challenges he faces trying foil the plans of the evil Guy of Gisborne and his bumbling henchman the Sheriff of Nottingham whilst attempting to win the hand of the fair lady Marian. Once again the panto has been co-written by Jane Parker and Anthony Young who have written a number of productions over the years, many of them award winning. Two years ago the society rounded off its eighty year celebrations by picking up two Gloucestershire Theatre Association awards for ‘Best Pantomime’ and ‘Best Comedy Performance’ and all the signs are that we will be treated to an equally high standard of entertainment this time round. You can also watch a ‘meet the cast’ video on Youtube. Just search ‘Wotton Pantomime 2104’. The society will also be raising money for the Cotswold Care Hospice during the panto run and in advance via www.justgiving.com/johnthom1967 where you go to sponsor the growing of Guy of Gisbornes beard.

2014 sees Wotton-Under-Edge dramatic society celebrating over eighty years of theatre in Wotton-Under-Edge and looking to the future as new members (many of whom are members of the junior section) come forward, the historic tradition of presenting entertaining, humorous and sometimes challenging drama in Wotton can continue for many more years. As always the society is open to new members of all ages for roles both and off stage and anyone interested can speak to any member of the society or email direct via the contact details on the society website www.wottondrama.co.uk which also now hosts a substantial archive of materials illustrating the history of the society.

Robin Hood and His Merry Man will be at Wotton-under-Edge Town Hall on Saturday 22nd November 2014 at 2:30 & 7:30 pm, Sunday 23rd November at 2:30 pm, Wed 26th, Thurs 27th and Fri 28th November at 7:30pm and Saturday 29th November at 2:30 & 7:30 pm. Tickets are £7 and are available now from the Cotswold Book Room, 26 Long Street, Wotton-under-Edge (9am to 5pm only).