Robin Hood....

What. A. Fun. Play.

So many details, from immaculate costumes to amazing sword fights, humorous characters and songs, awesome lighting effects, wonderful set pieces, singing and dancing, and even rope swings and gymnastics.

We loved being a part of it.

Of the 11 shows, I spent 9 of them backstage in the Green Room.

Why do they call it the Green Room? Good question. Because the walls are green.

I know, I was expecting a more theatrical response too.

It was quite a bit of work back there. Some moments it was a bit of a nightmare trying to shoosh all those 100+ kids while they were between scenes, trying to keep a kind smile and remind them for the 500,000th time that their voices can carry on-stage. There were also the occasional sword-eye injuries, sudden illnesses, or emergency cough drops so a voice would work properly for an upcoming scene, and the hunting down of secret pals who forgot to put their gifts in the tub.. 

But really, most moments I just stood in awe of these kids.

Of their amazing talents, their encouraging kindness and unfailing acceptance of each other, their constant bright smiles, and their fun personalities.

I constantly saw encouragement and praise, high fives and hugs.

On the final show day, some of the boys had me cracking up backstage dancing and lip singing along with the girls onstage performing the scene "Every Maiden Wants to Marry".  

So funny.

This is J.J. (aka Friar Tuck). He actually shaved his head for this role.

Using what we have available to ice a sword-eye injury.

My lovely peasant girls. Their makeup was supposed to look dirty, and they were told to drag each other through dirt outside to get their costumes dirty. I'm sure they didn't enjoy it at all. 

Lexxi, I know you don't like this picture, but look at Ashley, she looks like a zombie. :)

John (Caspar), and Talon (King Richard)

The guy in the tie is Dan Connelly, who directed Robin Hood. He was so great; the kids all loved working with him, and the positive manner with which he handled them really showed in their performances.

Nicole (our next-door neighbor), Briah, and Paisley (our neighbor a few houses down)

Strike Party.