Robin Hood The Musical!

A rich love story packed with adventurous fun! Engaging music transports you back to the timeless tales rooted at the Major Oak. Witness this high energy, sword clashing musical jaunt through Sherwood Forest!

Many of the characters you know and love from the classic Robin Hood tale, couple with an armful of original music to create this premiere musical! The folks of Nottingham band together with the "outlaws" to battle the arrogant and thoughtless ways of Prince John. Within the story they learn through the words of King Richard, that true richness can come to you, even without a coin in your pocket.

(This is not a version from the text if you are an avid Robin Hood historian, but a family friendly, love story based loosely from the Robin Hood tales. The ending of the show, however, is truly how many books of the story end...)

TOP HAT IS BACK!
Past Fringe Shows: Cinderella (2002) *#2 in Fringe!*, Snow White (2003), Peter Pan (2004), A Little Princess (2005), Hansel and Gretel (2007) *#5 in Fringe!*

2007 Voted "Best Music For Kids in the Twin Cities!" ~MN Parent Magazine
2008 Runner up to CTC and STAGES for "Best Theater for Kids" ~MN Parent Magazine

-------------------------------OUR SHOWS--------------------------------

Top Hat Theatre has been writing/producing original musical works since the summer of 2000. All of our shows are family friendly, but host enough depth and interest to engage both adult and youth audience.

This cast of 40 is about 80% adult with a twist of youth. Their incredible vocal power has brought this story to life and given it strength to make your laughter ring, and your heartstrings strummmed. Join us!

The cast

Justin Anderson
Role: Nat the Weaver
Justin Anderson, baritone, completed degrees in Italian Studies and Vocal Performance at the University of Minnesota, where he performed in many operas and scenes with the Opera Theatre program. He has also sung in several opera productions in Italy. This fall, he will be moving to Chicago to begin a Masters/PhD program in Italian Studies at the University of Chicago, with particular emphasis on 19th and 20th century Italian opera. Justin is a student of Barbara Kierig.

Katie Bockhaus
Role: Rich Traveler
Katie Bockhaus is a recent graduate of the HUC program at Hennepin Technical College. This is Katie's 2nd production with the Top Hat Theater, previously in Hansel and Gretel. Katie would like to thank her family for their gracious support of her artistic and professional life.

Bessie Bulman
Role: Betsy
Bessie Bulman, age 12, is a 7th grader at F.A.I.R (Fine Arts Interdisciplinary Resource) School where she enjoys theatre, music and other art activities. She is on a dance competition line at On Your Toes, School of Dance. Bessie has starred in Charlottes Web, Beverly Hillbillies, Annie, and many other shows at the Sabes JCC, as well as Suessical, at Stages Theatre Company, and Cinderella and Once on this Island at F.A.I.R school. This is her second production at Top Hat Theatres, and she is very excited to have this opportunity. She would like to thank her parents and brother, for being so supportive of her, and telling her not to give up, and her sister, for being such a good role model for her.

Sammy Delke
Role: Martha
Sammy Delke is 15 years old and will be a junior at St. Loius Park Senior High. There she is involved with athletics as well as the theater program. This is her first show with the Top Hat Theater Company and is happy to be a part of Robin Hood and the Fringe Festival. She would like to thank Janice for the opprtunity and Pam for the confidence in the role of Martha for this production."

Jennifer Diethart
Role: Chorus
Jennifer Diethart is very excited to make her return to Twin Cities theatre in her first Top Hat production! Jennifer graduated from Carthage College in 2007 with a degree in Music Theatre, and has been involved with community theatre in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Illinois. She recently finished a one year tour the Missoula Children's Theatre during which she worked with a lot of amazing kids around the country and got to play such roles as a giant country singin' Starfish. Her next role will be Aunt Trina in the musical I Remember Mama with New Breath Productions in St. Paul. She would like to send out a big thank you to her family for their never-ending support.

Isadora Donohue
Role: Chorus
Nine year old Isadora has been putting on shows for her family in their living room since she was a tot! She is thrilled to be a part of Top Hat Theater's Robin Hood. She enjoys taking singing, dancing, and figure skating classes. She is also an athlete, playing soccer, tennis, and golf.

Larry J. Evans
Role: King Richard/Guard/Old Man
Larry J. Evans is pleased to be making his first appearance with Top Hat Theatre. In the Twin Cities, his credits include A Christmas Carol (Guthrie Theatre), Fading to Grey (Diversity Productions), Democracy (Park Square Theatre), and Summer of '42 (Minneapolis Musical Theatre). Larry is a transplant from Ohio where he performed a variety of roles including J.B. Biggley in How to Succeed in Business without Really Trying, Maurice in Beauty and the Beast, Doc, Rulon Stacey, & others in The Laramie Project, Jack Jerome in Brighton Beach Memoirs, Seth Lord in The Philadelphia Story, Jerry Cohan in George M, Dr. Craven in The Secret Garden, Larry in Company, Fagin in Oliver!, Judge Wilson in 1776, and Lovborg in Hedda Gabler. He has also appeared with the Wisconsin Shakespeare Festival, The Outdoor Drama Tecumseh!, and the Alpha-Omega Repertory Theatre of America. He and his wife Linda head the Celebration Players Drama Ministry at Eden Prairie United Methodist Church, where they recently directed and appeared in a production of Spoon River Anthology.

Samuel Everett
Role: Guard
A long time student of Top Hat, Sam has performed in numerous productions. He is thrilled to be standing alongside such awesome talent this year! He was last seen in '07 Fringe in Hansel and Gretel.

Samantha Feinberg
Role: Amelia
Samantha Feinberg (16) Samantha will be a Junior at St. Louis Park High School. She has been doing community theater since fourth grade, and she has been in two shows with Stages Theater Company- Honk! the Ugly Duckling Musical (Queenie) and Seussical the Musical. She is also currently in the show "Your Happy Place" directed by Jon Ferguson (Stages Theater Company), which you should go see. "Thanks to my parents for transportation and support, and the amazing cast and crew for a wonderful show!"

Al Fiene
Role: Friar Tuck
Al is excited to be making his Top Hat (and Fringe) debut.. He was last seen in Sabes JCC’s production of The Fence, and The Old Gem Theatre’s production of A Don’t Hug Me Christmas Carol. Regional Theatre credits include Major Malone (Zombies From the Beyond) with Commonweal Theatre Company, and Narrator/Mysterious Man (Into the Woods) with Paul Bunyan Playhouse. Al has also toured nationally as Mortimer (The Man who Dies) (The Fantastics) with Troupe America. Thanks to Diane, for her understanding and support.

Olivia Frey
Role: Jane
Olivia Frey, recently seen as Mayzie LaByrd in Seussical 2008 at SMS, loves being part of her first Top Hat Show. Her musical experience includes her role as Patti in You're a Good Man Charlie Brown 2007 at SMS, a solosit and member of Robbinsdale All District Choir 2006-2007, a solosit and member of PIP Con Brio All Girls Minneapolis Chior 2007-2008 and a member of Robbinsdale Select Chior 2007-2008. She is also plays year round competative soccer for Wings Soccer Club and volenteers as a Junior Counselor at YMCA's Camp Manitou this summer. Mom and Dad, Two brothers, two dogs, and a cat Olivia is loving life in Golden Valley and hopes to be with Top Hat for many years to come. "Thanks for coming to the show, you're going to LOVE it"

Seth Gabriel
Role: Much the Miller's Son
Seth Gabriel attended The Perpich Center for Arts
Education graduating with a focus in Theatre in 2004.
He then moved to New York City to attend the American
Musical and Dramtic Academy where he graduated for
musical theatre in 2005. Recent credits include The
Merchant of Venice, at the Guthrie. Children of Eden,
at Wyandotte Theater in Detroit MI. He is extremely
thrilled to be working with such an exciting and
talented group of people.

Ankur Garg
Role: Chorus
Ankur Garg is thrilled to be a part of the Minneapolis Fringe Festival for the first time! She currently studies voice, and is a soprano with the Sonomento Singers. She has also studied music theater performance at MacPhail Center for Music, as well as improv & acting at the Guthrie Theater. She was most recently seen in Duluth Festival Opera's production of Verdi's "La Traviata".

Grant Hauptman
Role: Robin Hood
Grant is experiencing his first Fringe Festival in Minneapolis and is excited to be a part of it. He was born and raised in Omaha, NE and went to college at the University of Missouri (Columbia) where he received his BA in Performance Theatre. In Columbia, he was in shows such as Into the Woods (Wolf),and High Society (Dexter). After he graduated, he moved back to Omaha and performed in a few shows at the Omaha Community Playhouse and the Omaha Rose Theatre. He has now lived in St. Paul for little over a year now and is excited to begin a career in the Twin Cities!

Linda Hayen
Role: Chorus
This is Linda's second THT performance, returning after a fun run with Hansel and Gretel last summer!

Siri Hellerman
Role: Alice
Siri Hellerman has a theatre degree from Lawrence University in Appleton, WI. Favorite roles include Lucy in You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown, Emmy in First Lady and Sue in Bash: 3 Plays. During the school year Siri tours elementary schools with the National Theatre for Children. Siri would also like you to know that if she tries, she can actually sing pretty.

Patience Hughes
Role: Chorus
Patience has devoteda large chunk of her treasured life to numerous theater companies including Nebraska State Rep Theatre, Marin Civic Light Opera, and Emmy Gifford Childrens Theatre. She loves Top Hat most of all!

Heather Kurtz
Role: Chorus
Heather Kurtz is pleased to be in her second performance with Top Hat. She studies voice and musical theatre performance at MacPhail Center for Music. She has been a vocal soloist with the Minnesota Freedom Band and has performedat the Bloomington Arts Center. Currently, she is a soloist and section leader at University Baptist Church and teaches piano at Hovland Conservatory.

Kimber Lee
Role: Eleanor
Kimber has been a part of Top Hat Theatre since the tender age of 8 when she played the role of Cinderella in THT's first Fringe production! Aside from countless THT shows, she has credits in commercial, voiceover work, print, and numerous other live productions. A few favorites are Grinch (Cindy Lou Who: CTC), To Kill A Mockingbird (Scout: History Theater) and the great opportunity to work alongside the professional touring company of A Christmas Carol at The Orpheum.

William Marth
Role: Sheriff of Nottingham
Previously appearing on stage for Cross, Morris Park, Lakeshore, and Off-Broadway Musical Theatre, Bill makes his Top Hat debut as the Sheriff. Spending his days as a mild-mannered bank employee, favorite roles include The Cowardly Lion in Wizard of Oz, Mr. Applegate in Damn Yankees, and Bill Sykes in Oliver.

Martino Mayotte
Role: Alan 'A Dale
Martino spent the majority of his life in and outside of Detroit, Michigan before moving to New York to attend the American Musical and Dramatic Academy. Throughout his career he has worked on a great number of amazing production both on and off the stage. In addition to acting he is also a Choreographer, Director, Writer and all around theatre lifer. He has had a great time working on this show and hopes you enjoy! Muah!

John-Scott Moir
Role: Prince John
John-Scott Moir has delighted audiences here in the U.S.A. as well as abroad. John began his operatic career with the San Diego Opera, singing Chorus, Comprimario, and Touring Shows for SDO. Mr. Moir was an Apprentice Artist with the San Diego Opera Center under Tito Capobianco, and made his PBS television debut with the Capobianco production of Lehar's The Merry Widow, starring the late Beverly Sills.

While in San Diego, Mr. Moir came up with the idea for, and served as a Founding Board Member of the San Diego Gilbert and Sullivan Company (now San Diego Comic Opera). John's impeccable comic timing and acting ability made him a favorite Performing Artist in his many starring and acclaimed roles, both within the canon of Gilbertian Bass-Baritone characters, (Pooh-Bah, Col. Calverly, Mikado, Don Alhambra, Lord Mountararat, King Hildebrand) and in Musical theater, (Drake-Annie, El Gallo-Fantasticks, Tevye-Fiddler, Petrucchio-Kiss Me, Kate, Arthur- Camelot, Marcus Lycus-Forum) John hopes soon to be 'Dr.' Moir, as he is completing his DMA in Voice at Shenandoah University in Virginia. His students have performed in dinner theaters, Broadway touring shows, Equity Summer Stock, and have been Hennepin County Spotlight Award Winners. He teaches privately at numerous West Metro locations, and is Artistic Director of the new group, "CORO!"

Megan Olson
Role: Chorus
A vetran "Top Hat Kid", Megan has performed in many class productions as well as in last summer's Fringe performances of Hansel and Gretel.

Kate Penick
Role: Chorus
Kate is an upcoming Sandburg IB student. Previously she has been in plays at school and church, so she is excited to make her Top Hat debut! Kate plays saxophone, piano, and sings in All District Choir.

Thomas Raddatz
Role: Sir Guy of Gisborne
Tom Raddatz is from Blaine, Minnesota and currently resides in Minneapolis. He has an A.A. from Anoka Ramsey Community college and will attend Augsburg College this fall pursuing a B.A. in Theater Arts. His past theater credits include The Man Who Couldn't Dance (Director), Man of La Mancha (Anselmo), The Crucible (Judge Hathorne), and Macbeth (Banquo). Tom would like to thank Dan, Lisa, Julie, Andrew, Hannah, Scott, and Archie.

Luke Randall
Role: Guard/Rich Traveler
Luke Randall is a senior at Edina High School . He has been an active participant in school theater and currently serves as the President of the Thespian Club. He is also a member of the concert choir and concert band and looks forward to being one of the drum majors this year. Future plans include going to college to study opera performance. Luke has enjoyed being a member of the cast of “ Robin Hood the Musical.” If you know me you know what I have been involved in, and if you really want to know me just come find me. That’s all. Merci mes amis.

Marley Ritchie
Role: Chorus
Marley is performing in her third show with Top Hat theatre and is a participant in The Top Hat Theatre children's classes. Thanks Pam and Todd for a fun summer!

Simone Ritchie
Role: Chorus
Simone is a seventh grader at Robbinsdale Middle School . This marks her seventh show with THT and her second year with Fringe. Some favorite performances include… The Frog Prince (Betsy), Little Red Riding Hood (Margo), Wizard of Oz (Munchkin). She would like to thank her family and friends for their support. “Only thing to do is jump over the moon!”

Susan Ritchie
Role: Gwen
Susan Ritchie is performing her third show with Top Hat Theatre. Susan and her children, Simone and Marley, make it a summer event to be involved with Pam and Todd. Thanks to both of them for another year of fun and music!!!

Valerie Roder
Role: Marian
Valerie is happy to be performing in Minnesota again, here at the Fringe. A student at Marymount Manhattan College in NYC, she was last seen in the original production of Disney's High School Musical at the Children's Theater Company. She has been a part of over 30 productions, and is looking forward to returning to NY this fall. Love to family & friends-thanks, guys!

Max Russell
Role: Guard
Max has been on the stage since he was ten months old where he rode along on mama's hip during a revue of R&H music! He has continued his love for theater and music ever since. Max's other interests include reading, playing video games, bike riding and writing.

Sophia Russell
Role: Kid
Sophia is loving playing Robin Hood's little sister and excited to be back on the stage! She was last seen in Hansel and Gretel (Gisela) in '07 Fringe as well as in Top Hat class productions Little Red Riding Hood(Baby Bear). Sophia loves to sing, dance, act, read, and play with her extensive Beanie Baby collection!

Deborah Schee
Role: Sheriff's Wife
Deborah is excited to make her Top Hat Theatre debut! A resident of Medicine Lake, Deborah spends as much time as she can acting with Community Theaters such as; Lyric Arts Main Street Stage, Eden Prairie Players, Off Broadway Musical Theater, CROSS Community Players and Stages Theater Company. She also enjoys teaching children and adult acting classes. A big thank you to Jon, Erik and Mikhail for your love and support!

Madeline Stuart
Role: Chorus
This is Madeline's first performance with Top Hat Theatre and the Minnesota Fringe Festival. She was previously in The Best Christmas Pageant Ever! and Snow White with Applause Community Theatre, as well as Beauty and the Beast with Castle Community Theatre. She also enjoys her gymnastics and dance classes.

Matthew Tatone
Role: Little John
Matt Tatone is a 19 year-old college student, currently enrolled at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire. In college, he is studying music and theatre and has big, "Broadway" dreams. He is very excited for his first Fringe Festival as well as his first Top Hat performance. Thank you Mom and Dad for all of your undying support.

Daniel Vinitsky
Role: Will Scarlet
Daniel is 18 years old and will be a senior at St. Louis Park High School this year. He has performed in countless productions at various locations including Children's Theater Company,SLP High School, and many shows at the Sabes JCC. Daniel participates in the Prelude Performance Lab program at MacPhail Center for the Performing Arts, and it is the most valuable experience that he has had as a performer. He is thrilled to be a part of Robin Hood and would like to thank Pam and Todd for all the hard work they put into creating this wonderful show.

Samuel Vinitsky
Role: Thomas
Sam is very excited to be in Robin Hood, his first Fringe production. He has appeared in numerous productions including Beauty and the Beast (Lumiere), Romeo and Juliet (Romeo), and The Diary of Anne Frank (Peter). Thank you to Pam and Todd and the wonderful cast!!

Lauren Vlach
Role: Chorus
Lauren Vlach is planning to attend Delano Middle School this Fall. This is her second theater production. Lauren played the role of Marta in the Sound of Music at Mounds View Community Theater in 2006. Lauren loves playing the piano and spending time with her dog, Cola.

Madeline Youngstrom
Role: Meg
Madeline Youngstrom is thrilled to be playing Meg in this merry, yet touching production. You may have last seen her in Utopia, Limited by the Gilbert and Sullivan Very Light Opera Company. Many thanks to the friendly and talented cast, and her amazing loved ones. She hopes that Meg can give the seasoned single ladies out there hope for a second chance at love!

Showtimes

Sat., Aug. 2 @ 1:00 p.m.
Mon., Aug. 4 @ 7:00 p.m.
Wed., Aug. 6 @ 7:00 p.m.
[S] Sat., Aug. 9 @ 1:00 p.m.
Sun., Aug. 10 @ 5:30 p.m.

KEY:
[S]=ASL interpreted
[A]=Audio described

Show details

Venue: U of M Rarig Center Proscenium

Duration: 60 minutes

For ages 5+

Adapted by Pamela Russell

Genres: Musical theatre, Kids, Teens, ASL interpreted

Overall rating

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User reviews

A fun Play
by Jeff Larson Follow this reviewer
Rating 4 kitties
This was my first foray into the Fringe Fest. I must say it was a pleasant surprise. I was very entertained for an hour. Marion had a beautiful voice. I wish I could have heard more of her. The troubador and his girlfriend were hilarious. Very fun show!

Act II Ballad in Scene 1?
by Rick Treece Follow this reviewer
Rating 3 kitties
Grant Hauptman is a born charismatic hero, great stage presence, great rapport with other characters. I was also entertained whenever Martino Mayotte and Siri Hellerman were on stage; they had the best material, and they performed it to great advantage. The villains' scenes were a close second.

What's the message?
by allan veldey Follow this reviewer
Rating 2 kitties
Prince John does mean things and suffers no consequences and Robin does good things and dies. And not a single sword fight!

yo
by Tasie Mae Follow this reviewer
Rating 0 kitties
booor-ring

I am also 10 years old.

Amazing Musical!
by Becca Ol Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
this is show was amazing. The music, lyrics, the story was great. Definitly good for any age. Robin Hood and Marian are wonderful actors. Alan and Alice makes you always laugh. Along with the kids, who all the girls fall for Will Scarlet is funny. It is quick moving and never a down point. Definitly a show you must see in the Fringe Festival!

A show only a parent could love...
by Mistress Mary Follow this reviewer
Rating 0 kitties
...and that's only if their kid is in the cast. Amazing how many glowing reviews come from people with the same last name as cast members.

Just because theatre is intended for children is no excuse for poor quality. If anything, children's shows should be of a superior quality because kids are so impressionable.

The music is trite, the plot non-existent (the bad guys just give up? And who ARE all these extra characters?) There are some good singers, it's too bad they aren't given better material to work with.

The Message
by Sarah Cheree Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
I understand childrens theater is not for everyone, but for the reviewers that claim there is no plot... did you SEE the show? The message is delivered into the palm of your hand from the get go (and again as the show closes) as King Richard leaves for the Crusades. Learn to love. Live your life completely. The message, in case you somehow missed it in your fit of critique, is to be a good person in your life. That's what it is all about. In the story, the people of Nottingham overcome the nasty though often funny)perils of Prince John and the others in his group, and prevail with good hearts. That is life. Real life. The negative people are always outdone by those who keep a good spirit about them. I am standing here in defense of what I thought was a solid show. To see "0 Kitties" on a show that obviously is filled with talent, wonderful costumes, original music (whether you liked it or not) is deserving of more than that. Shame on you for thinking your opinion of such is even valid. Fringe is a creative outlet for artists to try things out and express their feelings and views. This is not Broadway with multi-million dollar budgets! Ease up! This show may have a youth target audience, but after reading the things nay-sayers are plugging in, I can't help but to think that YOU are the ones who need this show! You would benefit from what the show is saying if you would only stop criticizing long enough to hear it. I believe King Richard closes the show with something like, "Learn to love my friends, and you will be happy." He was speaking to you!!! If your crabby, insulting ways are the margins by which you live your life, then it is sad your cup will always be half empty.

For me, I loved the show. It warmed me from the inside out and I left with a good feeling in my soul, and a smile on my face. If only there were more shows to touch our hearts like this one does.

Good kid show by an ensemble
by Pat Lindgren Follow this reviewer
Rating 4 kitties
Took my 9 and 10 year old grandkids. The boy loved the sword and staff fights. The girl loved the Robin and Maid Marion scenes. They were both entertained for the full hour - quite an accomplishment. But the end of the show got a little lost in a commotion. Could have used a narrator (or a deux ex machina) there.

Pretty Good Musical in an hour!
by Chuck Beeson Follow this reviewer
Rating 4 kitties
I was trying to get into the Shakespeare production across the hall, but the rush line was out the door and 7PM was approaching, so I asked the usher "What's playing in here?" She said "Robin Hood: The Musica:" So I took my program and had a seat in the middle of the theater and watched a pretty good community theater musical. All original compositions, very nice. Good singing, good acting (for community theater) and a cast from little kids to older adults. Definitely a family production and very entertaining.

The hour time limit is tough so the story gets rushed through, but there was enough there to follow. A few techinical glitches with the sound, a curious choice to have a keyboardist on stage (his sound cut out in the beginning) and use of wireless mics caused some of the performers singing and speaking (shouting) to distort, but it didn't detract too much from the feel-good family atmosphere.

Also, Robin Hood only smiles...does he have any other emotions? The love relationships in the play are cute and believable, and the little girl (Robin's sidekick) stole the show, spot on with her lines.

Four kitties for this fun show, you should check it out if you haven't already.

Top Rate Show by Top Hat
by Beverly Wolfe Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
I always check out Top Hat's shows in the Fringe. They never disappoint. This year's show has the usually great music and singing, perfect entertainment for families.

Pure delight!
by Hank McFearsom Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
This show had me grinning from ear to ear from beginning to end. Music? Fantastic. Story? Awesome. Acting? Off-the-scale. I cannot speak highly enough of this Pamela Russell lady and her husband, Todd. The lessons that can be garnered from her work find immediate applicability in the real world for all but the most cynical of audience members. Thank you Pamela, thank you Todd, thank you Top Hat!

I Love this Show!
by Karmit Bulman Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
This is a feel good, funny, overall terrific show. The singers are amazing. What voices! The songs are sweet and witty. Don't miss this show!

Is this Fringe?
by June Lovasz Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
I have hit a few fringe shows here and there every year, but don't normally come out very impressed. I was planning on just giving a little "great job" posting, but after reading all the bologna that was written about this show on the Fringe site I felt like I had to do a more in depth review.
This show was a beautiful adaptation of a story that has been retold in a great number of forums. But honestly, I think it is one of my favorite versions. A nice step away from other fringe shows that just try and shock the audience, or try and "make us think" about some irrational point of view. It was a great pleasure to be able to sit, and laugh, and enjoy a cast that was genuinely talented from their high spirited and colorful chorus, all the way to their GORGEOUS Robin Hood. Where did they find this guy?! He has an ease about him that you rarely get from actors who are so good looking and a voice that can melt your heart, at least it did mine. Wish he would have sang a little more. An amazing cast sings very well written music is what it comes down to. Marion's voice is a blend of old and new broadway, a real treat. Prince John and his men make a GREAT comedy grouping. I particularly loved the guard with the beard and the tall scraggly one.
And if all that wasn't enough to excite your comedy sensors every time you start to think maybe it is time to get serious a hilarious Alice walks (or dances) on stage escorted by her equally charming Alan who leads her, as well as us, through a number of great bits told through Alan's silky baritone. The comedy is something that the kids find goofy, but more adult viewers understand to be a little something more.
Other highlights of the show are a perfectly cast King RIchard, an energetic and adorable Much, and one of the cutest leading actors in the festival who was simple called Kid.
It is a great show that you will be very glad you took your kids to, and you may be surprised to thoroughly enjoy it yourself!!! I am going again, hopefully I will see you there! Great Job TOP HAT! Keep it up!

OH!! So Cute!
by Caroll Webber Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
I just thought this was the a wonderfully fun show. There were a few moments where I was a little lost, but it kept turning back around and proved to be an over all great time. The few low points were greatly overshadowed by the majority of great adult actors. I love to see people with real talent doing children's theatre. It is refreshing. Not only among Fringe productions, but compared to children's theatre all over the cities. I would love to see this show adapted to a full production. I want to see more Prince John, more Alan a Dale and Alice, more Sherif and Wife, more Merry Men, more Robin and Marion, and more of that saucy little townswoman who always speaks her mind.
More More More!

Robin Hood's His Name
by Joe Melone Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
Five Kitties for a good show. Well prepared and well written. Thanks for the show!

It is descriptive - straight forward
by Kris Johnson Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
I really enjoyed this play. I could have been at the Guthrie, the Chanhanssen Dinner Theatre or another professional theatre company tonight. Every singing part was a strong performance; noone looked nervous; everyone looked confident and like they were truly enjoying themselves on stage. Marian's voice is beautiful. When Robin and Marian had duets I truly believed they were in love. Strong performances by main characters. Great message. Fun. The guitar player and girl friend were hilarious adding levity to the play. Eleanor stood out from the crowd with how she carried herself and her light hearted flirting. The end brought a tear to both my eyes and my friends. Top Hat true to their mission - family friendly! I would recommend this play to anyone. Nicely done!

Good Show
by Jeremy Bulman Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
This was a fun and entertaining show. Sure to please people of all ages.

GRAB YOUR KIDS AND GO!
by Brandon Sommers Follow this reviewer
Rating 3 kitties
A wonderfully story and an hour of your time for kids or a family show.

For an older person wanting to see just another fringe show, not so much.

Costumes were FANTASTIC.

Casting was great.

The acting was good.

The music was fair only a couple of songs, and then the rest of it kind of blew. (but once again, I'm sure the music is still awesome for kids...or people who aren't heavily into music..it just really annoyed me)

I liked the mood setting backround music however.

A commendable job well done to advancing that much plot and that many scenes in the amount of time you had.

Grant Hauptman seemed perfect for the gentle role he played of Robin Hood...very tall and of course, not bad on the eyes either.

I would have liked to have seen more of Valerie Roder as Marian. Her singing/songs were the high point for me in this show. Shout out to Val..WOOO. Way to rock it girl.

I loved the romantic songwriter couple..very funny, very good overall as part of the story.

Daniel Vinitsky did a fantastic job in his song! Wonderful sounding voice and has come along way since his baritone days. Shout out to Dan! Woo!

The lrycis and music could have been a bit more edgy and alive rather than diving right into a heavy emotion about learning to love, and using simple simple wordings as lyrics...but once again, the style of music and lyrics are perfect for a kid.

Great Show.
by Julie Kotz Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
Good job you guys! I loved it!

all i have to say is...
by Alberta P. Follow this reviewer
Rating 1 kitty
oh my god....

Does It's Job
by Ben Thietje Follow this reviewer
Rating 3 kitties
Great for your kids.

Robin Hood?
by David Gamache Follow this reviewer
Rating 2 kitties
I came into this show with high expectations and very few were confirmed with this particular show. This production did have glimmers of hope with wonderful singers, fulfilling actors and beautiful costumes. The main problem I had with this production was the story and script. For a show about Robin Hood and how wonderful the guy was, he didn’t seem to do a whole lot. We “heard” about all the great things he had done but his escapades were blocked from the audience by deviating story lines and humorous romps with Prince John and his minions. I wanted to see how great Robin Hood was and, frankly, the story wasn’t about him. I admit the comic relief with the minstrel and his “Fran Drescher-ish” sweetheart were historical and made the show very enjoyable, but I came to see Robin Hood and his adventures. These additional scenes with these other characters prevented me from grasping the true and wonderful tale that is Robin Hood. There are so many other parts of this legend that I would have liked to see in this production.
I really didn’t know how to feel with this show. I didn’t know if it was a drama or a farce. The show had elements of drama and farce and this made me feel detached from the story because I was trying to figure out how I should be feeling.
I did mention also the beautiful singing and music in the show and there honestly was great music in this show sung by talented people. All of that was muted with some technical problems with the microphones used in the production. I get distracted with microphones, especially when beautiful songs like King of My Heart sung by the very talented Valerie Roder sounds like it is coming from a tin can on account of those microphones.
I gave this show two kitties because it had a few redeeming qualities. The actors and singers in this production were fantastic and fit the bill for talent. If only the script and story could have supported their talent.

Talent in Tights!
by Hannah Weyandt Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
I was delighted to see this tale told in musical form! The music is catchy and engaging for audience members. This is a wonderful show for fringe-goers of all ages! Even the villains grew on me, so be sure not to miss this one!

Seriously?
by z black Follow this reviewer
Rating 1 kitty
I have to give credit to the company for being a teaching medium, giving children an opportunity to perform, but the material itself is not very good. The music is very derivitive and the story is Robin Hood in name only. Don't expect any swordfights or a happy ending. There were several nice voices, including Marians, but the dancing and acting were really lacking.

I went to see this show because two Fringe veterans who always give a good show were supposed to be in it. I was very disappointed to see that they weren't- they would have helped.

Terrible, terrible, terrible.
by Donna Chu Follow this reviewer
Rating 1 kitty
From beginning to end, this show failed to leave me impressed. The writing was horrible, filled with plot holes and barely even discussed the tale of Robin Hood himself. I have seen Top Hat shows in the past and every year they seem to get worse and worse. The music sounds exactly the same in every show, I'm pretty sure it is, with a few word changes. There are always way too many kids running rampant around the stage and actors I feel they put in the show just because they were parents or friends. There are some good actors and singers in this show, like the actress who played Marian, and I feel they are wasting a lot of time doing this crappy production. If you want to be in pain for an entire hour go see this show. Otherwise I advise you to skip out on it. By far the worst I have seen in the Fringe so far.

See Great Talent and Feel Good Too
by Janice Feinberg Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
This is a wonderful musical, delightful story, great talent. The story makes you feel good, the songs are great and the talent is terrific. Feel Good and lots of laughs too!! Bring the whole family!

Wonderful vocal talent
by Erin Stuart Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
This cast is full of wonderful vocals! The songs were fun to listen to and the comedy duos were great fun to watch! Well done!

Great family Fun
by Frank Feinberg Follow this reviewer
Rating 4 kitties
Advertised for ages five and up so to compare this show to more avant garde and on the edge Fringe stuff is pointless. This is terrific fun, with a moral lesson for the kids, superbly performed, with excellent vocals. Who needs more. Totally refreshing in a time of high shock value. Terrific job everyone.

Don't miss this one!!
by Irit Vinitsky Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
Awesome cast, great songs, wonderful costumes, an all around delightful show! Amazingly talented singers! Some very funny parts and always entertaining. This show will leave you with a tear in your eye and a smile on your face. Don't miss this one!

What a Great Time
by kris frey Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
This show is great...the costumes are beautiful, the music a delight, the cast is energetic and excited. The large cast varies from little ones, to seasoned actors and each compliments and cares for the other. The show is a entertaining escape from the realities of the day. The hard work is evident, dancing, singing acting...it is a treat for all, we'll be back tomorrow and again on the weekend. Thanks Top Hat for a wonderful family show!!!!

Worth Every Penny!
by Joe Miller Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
This is an amazing show. The original music is phenomenal, and performed very well. The script is solid and acted well. One of my favorite parts of the show was the guitar toting Alan A Dale and his "lovely" lady friend, Alice. They are both extremely talented actors, and Alan's vocals were very good. They were very funny and make a good team. My other favorite part of the show is the duet between Robin Hood and Marian at the end of the show. I can't express how amazing they are together and how beautiful the song is. It was really the highlight of the show for me! Go see it! It's worth every penny! :)

A Sweet Treat
by Kristi Lawless Follow this reviewer
Rating 4 kitties
A pleasing show with a large cast from young to old. Nice voices too. Everyone looked happy to be there.

Marian
by Richard Shields Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
Top Hat has once again mounted a clever, family-friendly show. There is a wide-range of talented players in this production with many of them certain to be major forces within the performance scene here and elsewhere. A voice that should gain your attention is that of Valerie Roder as Marian. I have been to several musical productions so far at fringe this year and by far her voice is the most beautiful I have heard.

Top Hat shows us a willingness to take a risk with audience reaction by offering us a ending in this production that I did not see coming.

Insulting to any kid who reads
by Fringivitis Vulgaris Follow this reviewer
Rating 0 kitties
This show is to Robin Hood as turkey legs are to the Renaissance. Just add Disney and hit "puree."

Love it!
by Leah Hanson Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
"Learn to Love," not a bad directive from King Richard, the wise but departing patriarch to Robin Hood and his sister, "Kid" in the opening number. It didn't take long for me to "learn to love" this show.
You'd have to hire a casting director to make a better fit of personalities with the roles, and vocal talent (lots of it) with the scores. My only critque would be the need for more lighting on the Merry Men in the final scene. It is an otherwise well lit show. The accompanying live music really adds to the show.
This musical is good for the ears, good for the funnybones, good for the soul.

A joy!
by Wayne Olhoft Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
Diverse cast - children through gray hair. Entertaining and funny. Opportunity for many to shine and sing well. Refreshing take on familiar story. Family friendly. Sit back and enjoy it.

Delightful!!
by Steve Hirsch Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
The stage is set right from the beginning - the parental figure of King Richard - singing to Robin Hood - "learn to love". I enjoyed the message and glad that it came back with a reprise at the end to conclude the musical. It was refreshing to see a nice blend of ages in this production and how they interacted with each other. The comic relief was timely and appreciated. This musical was very well written - acted - and sung - it was truly a delight to watch.

what fun!
by julie fossell Follow this reviewer
Rating 4 kitties
This is a great show. It is funny, the music is great and the cast is well prepared. It is kid friendly, but I appreciated it as a single gal as well (robin hood is lovely eye candy!). My only critique is that some of the cast seemed nervous and spoke a little too quickly. I would expect that kink to be worked out and you are in for a treat if you go!

solid musical entertainment.
by Robert Johnson Follow this reviewer
Rating 5 kitties
I vote five kitties. Reminds me of musicals popular in my parents' hey day-- the extravagant kind seen on Turner Classic movies-- only in color with more modernized language. If you liked "Mamma Mia" at the Orpheum, you will like this show. One critique--the sets are pretty minimal-- efficient I suppose, though I would have liked to see at least one tree--Isn't this supposed to be Sherwood Forest? The show hosts a variety of musical styles. The costumes are nice,especially the royalty, their entourage and the women. Well chiseled Robin Hood is believable as the "leader of the pack" of merry men. Kind of a "sensitive" John Travolta type--and I'm not speaking of his latest movie role. Robin's duet with Maid Marion, whose voice is beautiful, pulls at the heart (or should I say 'bow") strings. Will Scarlet-- a new character (nephew of Robin Hood?) is a terrific tenor-- his solo and interactions are a highlight of the show. My perhaps favorite singer, though, is Allen A. Dale--whose facial expressions and guitar vinettees with his brashy romantic interest are worth the price of admission alone. Can't get enough of this guy. But enough of the good "guys"-- and you'll understand the pun should you attend. WHAT REALLY WORKS ARE THE BAD GUYS: The Sheriff of Nottingham is so comfortable being a "jerk" on stage. Evil Prince John has it all: stature, a British toned rich vocal quality commonly seen in Guthrie productions, comedic flair and nice knees-- though there is only a fleeting glimpse of same during one of the dance numbers--I don't recall the name of the song as there are so many. Best original Fringe musical I've seen in some time. Heigh- high-ho.

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