This year’s CBeebies panto lands in UK cinemas from 1 Dec, with a brand new adaptation of the classic Robin Hood, filmed live at the Venue Cymru in Llandudno.
With Robin and his Merry Band protecting Sherwood Forest and its animal residents from the dastardly Sheriff of Nottingham, the stage is set for an hour of fun.
The latest in a string of pantomimes produced in association with Modern Films Family, Robin Hood displays all the magic of the genre with a sparkling script and even a turn from Dodge the dog as – a squirrel!
Aimed at the under-6 demographic, the annual CBeebies panto is a riot of music, colour and loud characters. No more the Merry Men of old, Robin’s band are happily diverse and gender-blind.
Rhys Stephenson makes a smashing Robin, all bravado and derring do with a touch of arrogance. Jennie Dale is a truly hissable Sheriff who deserves all the audience boos (“I’m the Sheriff of Nottingham/and this is my naughty plan”).
With a message of saving our forests and being kind to animals weaved into the traditional “oh yes it is” stuff, this is superior fare for tots and youngsters.
There’s even a sparkly trio of singing squirrels to lighten the mood, and I’m a sucker for anything highlighting these clever and cute little rodents.
These pantos have been at the top of their game for years now, and Robin Hood is no exception, with cutaways to engrossed children proving this is just the right piece of entertainment.
Justin Fletcher’s comedy Bee adds the right portion of poor jokes and physical silliness to the plot, while Maddie Moate’s Marian hauls in the girl power.
Cinema screenings will include exclusive content (extra scenes and additional fun) alongside the film itself. While watching the film, you can learn your dance moves, call out the hidden threats, and lots more.
Written by Andrew Pollard and directed by Chris Jarvis and Geoff Coward, Robin Hood will also be broadcast on CBeebies on 9 Dec at 9.25am and 10 Dec at 4.45pm.
If you fancy treating your little ones to a cinematic feast of joy, you can find out which of your local cinemas is showing this – details at cbeebiespanto.com.
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