Ribald, Raunchy and Risque

Throbbin’ Wood

Back in 1883 American artist and author Howard Pyle wrote a book that became popular with children and adults alike. He entitled his episodic novel The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood. It was compiled from dozens of medieval ballads about an outlaw who robbed from the rich to give to the poor. The English folk hero was said to have lived, along with his band of Merry Men, near Nottingham in Sherwood Forest. Each chapter of the book recounted a different adventure, such as how Little John defeated Robin in a wooden staff fight, how the portly Friar Tuck bested the outlaw and how Robin welcomed balladeer Allan a Dale, and the others, into his fold. While good King Richard the Lionhearted was away at the Crusades, Robin and his men fought against the evil Sheriff of Nottingham, who reined in terror and overtaxed the peasants. Eventually the King returned to his homeland, pardoned Robin of Loxley and gave his blessing for Robin’s marriage to his niece, Maid Marian.

In PrideArt’s latest holiday pantomime, or panto as the Brits call them, we get a ribald, raunchy and risque adult version of the Robin Hood folktale. Written by playwright Tom Whalley, the play’s stuffed with silliness, off-color jokes, prurient puns, lewd situations and coarse, exaggerated characters. This is definitely an entertainment crafted for liberal-minded audiences. And, since this is a PrideArts production, Mr. Whalley’s unorthodox panto is particularly geared toward the LGBTQ+ theatergoer. As in traditional English pantomimes, the play features topical humor, repetitious gags, slapstick comedy, popular songs, suggestive dances and gender-crossing actors. And, as in PrideArts’ previous two panto productions, the audience is encouraged to sing along and shout rehearsed lines as each main character takes the stage.

Directed by Taylor Pasche, this vivacious nine-member cast is tireless in their attempt to get laughs. A few of the performers, however, seem to especially understand the art of pantomime performance. They’re led by Neill Kelly, as Nanny Fanny. Kelly, who’s performed with many other theatre companies, is a talented veteran of the PrideArts panto series. Last seen in JACK OFF THE BEANSTALK and SLEEPING WITH BEAUTY, Neill is a powerful presence in this funny, crossdressing role. He’s joined by handsome Bryan Fowler, in the title role. Another multi-gifted actor with an impressive resume, Fowler was also seen in SLEEPING WITH BEAUTY. Bryan beautifully plays this properly arrogant British hero with gusto. His performance offers a strong physicality, a powerful speaking voice and vibrant vocal work. Mr. Fowler certainly has the presence and acting chops to impress in this leading role.

Making his Chicago theatrical debut, Ryder Dean McDaniel is another talented member of this cast who grasps the fine, overblown style of pantomime acting. He beautifully portrays both the villain, the Sheriff of Frottingham, and the hero, King Dick. A commanding presence in this production, we hope to see a lot more of Mr. McDaniel in the future. And returning to PrideArts after appearing in GAY CARD, affable actor Freddy Mauricio is delightful as Silly Willy. His comedic skill overflows with unbridled enthusiasm and energy, which can sometimes become a little too much.

THROBBIN’ WOOD is PrideArts’ third panto production by playwright Tom Whalley. The show features some excellent performances and is very adult, filled with four-letter words and plenty of references to bodily functions and sexual situations. The characters are all over-the-top and the story is inane, immature and frankly illogical. But that’s English pantomime for you. Open-minded audiences who like their entertainment loud, ludicrous and lascivious will absolutely relish this alternative holiday entertainment.

Recommended

Reviewed by Colin Douglas

Presented November 15-December 15 by PrideArts, 4139 N. Broadway, Chicago.

Tickets are available at the door, by calling 773-857-0222 or by going to www.pridearts.org.

More information about this and other area productions can be found by visiting www.theatreinchicago.com