Seattle Children’s Theatre presents “Robin Hood,” the classic tale of the rebellious outlaw who robbed from the rich to give to the poor. His story finds an elevated adaptation in this swashbuckling production that will appeal to older kids with an engaging story of valor, justice, and a touch of love. Despite its folklore roots, the play feels surprisingly modern, and the art of storytelling is celebrated through themes of resilience and rebellion.
Amy Danneker, ML Roberts, Evan Whitfield, and Arjun Pande in Seattle Children’s Theatre’s production of “Robin Hood”. (Image: Truman Buffett)
A Sherwood Synopsis
Adapted for the stage by Greg Banks and directed by SCT’s Artistic Director Johamy Morales, “Robin Hood” condenses the many tales of the legendary marksman into a highlights reel, serving a fine introduction to newcomers to the age-old story. The production opens to a group huddled in the forest where the lore of a man crusading for the common folk takes center stage in a bewitching oral history: during the late 12th century, England is fighting the Third Crusade overseas, which has drawn King Richard the Lionheart abroad. His brother Prince John (ML Roberts) rules in his place, and his avarice inspires an uproar in the kingdom.
Robin Hood (Arjun Pande) is the avenger who lives in Sherwood Forest and seeks to level the playing field for the less fortunate. He and his band of Merry Men, including burly Little John, Much the Miller’s Son and William Scarlet, patrol the area, keen to evade their nemesis the Sheriff of Nottingham (Evan Whitfield), whose lawlessness and lack of accountability makes him a loathsome opponent.
Maid Marian (Amy Danneker) upends the Sheriff’s plans after he forces her into the forest to infiltrate the crew. Her good heart and strong moral code lead her to fall in love with Robin instead. As the Sheriff’s dogged scheme is unrelenting, the gang decides to stage a coup, culminating in a showdown of wits, skills, and, of course, archery. Some legends hit the mark.
Amy Danneker and Arjun Pande in Seattle Children’s Theatre’s production of “Robin Hood”. (Image: Truman Buffett)
Mature, but not Medieval
Set in a frame narrative, “Robin Hood” is both easily digestible in its universal themes of good vs. evil, the power of friendship, and resistance to corruption, and difficult to follow with only four actors playing multiple parts and a storyline that jumps through space and time. My 8-year-old understood the majority of it, though occasionally she would whisper questions that revealed her need for clarity. “Why is he saying that? I thought he was a good guy.” “Didn’t her dad already die?” The confusion over characters, differentiated in the production with subtle props or small wardrobe changes, seemed to be a common theme throughout the theater, where titters of questions could be heard.
However, it did not detract from the production, and, if I’m being honest, it was a relief as an adult viewer to sit through the classic story I’ve read and seen time and again without it being whittled down or made more palatable for younger eyes. The production design by Parmida Ziaei is astounding. The single tree, made of many wood planks, serves as the play’s focal point. The lighting changes to denote whatever new emotion is pulsing through the scene, but the action, regardless of where exactly it is meant to be taking place, flows organically through and around the standout set piece.
Amy Danneker and Arjun Pande in Seattle Children’s Theatre’s production of “Robin Hood”. (Image: Truman Buffett)
Finally, the crowd interaction helped keep the young theater-goers invested in the story. Calls to join in the chant “Long live King Richard,” hammered home the basic setting of an otherwise convoluted geo-political landscape nearly a thousand years in the past. In many ways, Robin Hood represents the black and white nature of good versus evil, where helping others is its own form of sainthood and persecuting those already down on their luck is an undeniable crime against
humanity. For my kids, it was particularly exciting when the actors walked down the aisles, passing out coins and even, in the production’s final act, pulling two young congregants onto the stage to participate in the final competition.
Long live King Richard, long live Robin Hood!
Know Before You Go
- Dates: The show runs through May 10, with a variety of showtimes spanning the morning and
evening. - Runtime: Approximately 70 minutes without an intermission.
- Recommended Age: 8+
- Special Performances:
- The Access/Audio Described Performance is Sunday, May 10, at 11:00 a.m.
- The Sensory-Friendly Performance is Saturday, April 25, at 12:00 p.m.
- Location: Seattle Children’s Theatre is located at 201 Thomas Street, Seattle, 98109
- Parking: Garage and street parking are available for a fee. Give yourself ample time if there is an event at Climate Pledge Arena.
