reviewed by Paula Citron
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Robin Hood
Ross Petty Productions
Written by Chris Earle
Directed by Ted Dykstra
Starring Eva Avila, Dan Chameroy, Jessica Holmes, Jeff Irving, Yvan Pedneault and Ross Petty
At the Elgin Theatre until Jan. 3
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Ross Petty’s British-inspired Christmas pantomime has become a beloved Toronto family tradition. Petty is always the villain, the man (or woman) kiddies love to boo. Since Chris Earle has been writing the show, there is more for adults to laugh at, while director Ted Dykstra tickles the funnybone with his stage antics.
Robin Hood – subtitled “The Environmental Family Musical” – is vintage Petty. The cast always includes stars of popular culture so this show has Eva Avila from Canadian Idol, Jessica Holmes from Royal Canadian Air Farce, Jeff Irving from The Sound of Music and Yvan Pedneault from We Will Rock You, which kind of covers the waterfront. Holmes, in particular, is a real talent. Dan Chameroy is along doing his transvestite shtick which he does very well.
All in all, the show is extremely enjoyable. Children will like the breezy plot and adults will get the double entendres.
Robin Hood continues at the Elgin Theatre until Jan. 3.