Central Missouri Repertory to Present Children’s Touring Production ‘Robin Hood’

WARRENSBURG, MO – Entering its 39th season of bringing live children’s theatre productions to West Central Missouri, University of Central Missouri (UCM) Repertory Theatre (CMR) will present “Robin Hood” by Kathryn Schultz Miller at numerous locations throughout this region in late May and early June. This includes a free, public performance in Warrensburg at the Highlander Theatre on the UCM campus at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 28, as well as performances at venues in Clinton, Lee’s Summit, Richmond, Rocky Mount, and Sedalia as part of a touring schedule that begins May 25 and ends June 8.

A production for all ages and great family entertainment, “Robin Hood” is directed by Dr. Aaron Scully, assistant professor of theatre in the Division of Theatre and Dance at UCM. This play is a rollicking, hilarious and fast-paced children's version of the classic tale of “Robin Hood.”  Robin and his band of merry men are stealing from the rich to give to the poor when Robin finds out the Sheriff of Nottingham has locked his one true love, Maid Marian, in the dreaded tower. Robin then sets out to save Maid Marian, and along the way meets a slew of interesting characters, including his best friend, the giant Little John. The audience will follow Robin Hood’s journey as he teams with good and battles evil on his quest for love.

When asked about the production, Scully stated, “This play is so entertaining - it’s really written well - it moves really fast, with lots of good jokes, physical comedy and audience interaction. We are having a great time in rehearsals. The characters are familiar but each have specific personalities so the actors are having a blast exploring (the characters). Kids and parents alike will really enjoy this production - it’ll be a great way to kick off the summer!”

“Robin Hood” will be on tour presenting public performances at several sites within an easy drive from Warrensburg as follows: May 25, the Farris Theatre in Richmond - free admission (performance at 10 a.m.); May 26, the Thompson Theatre at Hayden Liberty Center in Sedalia - $5 admission (performance at 2 p.m.); May 28, Highlander Theatre on the UCM campus in Warrensburg - free admission (performance at 2 p.m.); May 31, Legacy Park Amphitheatre in Lee’s Summit - free admission (performances at 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.); June 1, Camp Wonderland, Rocky Mount - free admission (performance at 10:30 a.m.);  June 2, Lexington Middle School - free admission (performance at 10:30 a.m.); and June 8, Henry Elementary School in Clinton - free admission (performance at 1 p.m.). For more information about specific performances, please contact Dr. Scully at ascully@ucmo.edu.

The company includes: Riley Given as Robin Hood/Beggar/Jester, Shanna Sinow as Maid Marian/Friar Tuck and Jace Nielsen as Little John/Prince/Monk/King Richard/Guard. Dr. Scully is the Director/Production Manager/Producer/Marketing Director; Grace Clark is Stage Manager; Dalima Kapten is the Scenic/Props Designer/Technical Director, Hollie Neumann is the Costume/Hair/Makeup Designer, and Jamie Gresens is the Sound Designer.
 The performance is made possible by a generous donation from the Wetzel Family Foundation, a grant from the Missouri Arts Council, and UCM Theatre and Dance. Special thanks to UCM Theatre and Dance Chair Ashley Miller-Scully for her support.

The show is family-friendly and for all ages. The production includes some fight sequences. An optional opportunity for audience interaction and/or participation is available. For more information, please contact Dr. Aaron Scully at ascully@ucmo.edu or call the UCM Theatre and Dance office at 660-543-4020.