Tim Kelly’s “Robin Hood” opens at Lionheart; Family duos take the stage by storm once again

By Kyra Posey

The idea of sword-fighting and romping through Sherwood Forest together instantly drew father-son duo John and Joseph Connel to participate in Tim Kelly’s upbeat and exciting play “Robin Hood” at Norcross’ Lionheart Theatre this month.

Thirteen-year-old Joseph Connel has been in many plays with his father including “Music Man” and “Fiddler on the Roof”. What makes “Robin Hood” so different is that it’s a children’s play- a new experience that the duo hasn’t taken on before.

“Usually I’m the only kid in the group, but now my dad’s one of the only grown-ups,” laughed Joseph,13, who plays Will . “That’s definitely something new to us.”

John Connel, who plays the jovial Friar Tuck, laughed along with his son, nodding his head with him.

“It’s summer, it’s a children’s show, and it’s a high-energy group,” said John Connel. “There’s a lot of humor in the script and hilarious characters, which the audience will eat up.”

John Connel also notes that he’s also performed in numerous shows with his two elder sons, David (17) and Matthew (21) over the years.

“Performing with my sons is such a special experience,” he said. “We’re working creatively together on a project that requires commitment and concentration. The result is always very gratifying for a dad.”

Another family duo involved in the play is Jordan and James Wood, sister and brother, ages 14 and 10. They’ve been in shows together since early childhood, and rely on each other in rehearsal now in adolescence.

“It’s awesome having someone that I can talk to and learn lines with,” said Jordan, who plays a menacing soldier. “What makes ‘Robin Hood’ so really fun for the audience is that there’s a lot going on in the show and everyone is high-energy.”

Both Jordan and James want to be involved in theatre now and in their future careers, and agree that being in shows together has helped them bond as a family.

“We go to school together and want to do theatre as a job, so being in a fun summer play together helps build upon that experience,” said James, who plays a Merry Man.

At a typical rehearsal, one can find the Wood’s and the Connel’s laughing in between scenes and helping each other learn lines. The backstage energy translates into the energy on-stage, as they portray high-energy characters.

According to Robin Hood Director Tanya Caldwell, several families have participated in Lionheart plays. “That’s part of the beauty of community theatre.”

Though it’s a family-oriented play, the authentic story of “Robin Hood” will satisfy audiences of all ages. Caldwell said she takes pride in the fact that the audience will experience a high-quality, authentic story that every person will enjoy.

“The cast is extremely well-behaved and ready to work,” said Caldwell. “Their attitude allows us to put out a quality show that people can really enjoy.”

All ages are welcome to enjoy the play at Lionheart Theatre Company from July 13 to July 16.

Tickets are available at www.lionhearttheatre.org and include cookies and punch with the cast after the show. Tickets are $10 for all seats. For inquiries only, email reservations@lionhearttheatre.org or call 678-938-8518.

Photo: During rehearsal, Tanya Caldwell (left) goes over a scene with Joesph Connel and John Connel (right). Photo by Kyra Posey

Photo: While waiting for their scenes, Jordan Wood (right) helps brother James Wood (left) with his lines. Photo by Kyra Posey