Hinkletown Mennonite School (HMS) first performed "Robin Hood" on the school stage more than 10 years ago, but according to Denise Clymer, costume designer for the production, current students have access to scripts from past productions, and those students were able to persuade the director to resurrect the comedy for members of the sixth through eighth grades to present.

"Robin Hood" takes place in medieval times in Sherwood Forest in England, where Robin, played by Aslan Umble, and his band of followers give aid to those living under the tyranny of Prince John. When Robin Hood comes up against the Sheriff of Nottingham, played by William Rissler, Robin learns that his childhood friend, Maid Marian, played by Eve Martin, is engaged to marry the evil Prince John. Robin and his followers endeavor to rescue the fair maiden and fight for King Richard, who is the true king of England.

The one-hour play will be presented at HMS, 272 Wanner Road, Ephrata, on Friday, March 1, and Saturday, March 2. The March 1 performance will be a dinner theater, which will begin at 5:30 p.m. The March 2 performances will be held at 2 and 7 p.m. The show is directed by Jeremy Horning with assistance from Jennifer Myers and Alyssa Martin.

HMS Venture Program student Lucia Chase, who is serving as assistant director, called the show "different, fun, and unique." She said that the cast of more than 20 took to the material quickly, with many students off book only a few days into the rehearsal schedule. "That's very impressive," she pointed out, noting that the cast is "well-behaved and patient." "They take instruction and work with it," she shared, adding that the seasoned cast members "can play around with the director's suggestions." Chase stated that challenges of the fast-paced show include rehearsing the action-packed scenes in limited space so that the meaning behind the show will shine through.

Riley Martin, who plays Little John, agreed, saying, "There's lots of combat and action." Riley pointed out that the comedic take on the classic tale relies on some sight gags such as when he is surrounded by the sheriff's men. "The soldiers and sheriff's men are played by the shortest people in the entire middle school," he noted, adding, "I am the tallest person in the middle school."

Lily Zimmerman, who played Charlotte in HMS' 2023 production of "Charlotte's Web," will play Beth, one of Robin's loyal followers. Zimmerman's character is engaged to marry another character in the show. "That's a little bit awkward," she said with a chuckle, adding, "This play is very comical, and we get to add our own twists to make it especially funny."

Umble agreed, noting, "The play puts a comical twist on the original story (of Robin Hood), with the sheriff being portrayed as a (bumbling character)." Umble added that he enjoys taking part in theater and spending time with friends. He auditioned for the lead because he thought it would be cool to be Robin. Eve agreed that acting and connecting with people are fun parts of being in the production.

Chase said that the show is family friendly, offering something for both adults and children. She stated that the production provides students with a variety of ways to use their talents. "I think students at HMS are able to engage in their specific interests through this show," she said, adding that the plan is for the large stage crew, including tech and lighting, to be student led. "On and off stage, that is a big and important reason for doing this show," she said.

Readers who wish to purchase tickets for the dinner theater may call 717-354-7100. Tickets for the two performances on March 2 may be purchased at the door.