Newtowne Players aim to take on 'Robin Hood'

Produced by Robin Finnacom and directed by Carlton Silvestro, the play features the main character and familiar supporting members Maid Marian, Friar Tuck and the Sheriff of Nottingham in a family friendly show.

“This show gives every audience member a chance to have a fun, enjoyable evening,” said Silvestro, who is directing his first show after spending over a dozen years performing on stage. “There are so many great lines and the cast is amazing. The chemistry among so many of the characters is great to watch.”

Jacob LeJeune, a Leonardtown High School and University of Maryland graduate who works at the Naval Air Station Paxuxent River, said he has performed in numerous plays with The Newtowne Players and the Port Tobacco Players. He said he thrives in musicals but opted to trade in his singing talents for the chance to occasionally wield a sword as the main character, Robin Hood.

“This show is so much fun,” LeJeune said. “When I auditioned for the show I wanted to play Robin Hood and I was so glad that I got the part. This version of the show is unique, because it really involves a lot more comedy It’s one of those shows that the entire family can relax and enjoy.”

Another local product, Drew Hughes, a Chopticon High School graduate who plays the feisty Maid Marian, also appears to thrive in her role as Robin Hood’s sidekick and eventual love interest. Hughes, who studied acting at the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in New York, brings a range of talents to the role including a genuine ability to handle a sword.

“When they started offering auditions for Maid Marian and it gave me the chance to handle a sword on stage I knew it was the part for me,” said Hughes, who is performing in her first play with The Newtowne Players and is also involved in local improvisational shows. “It’s such a fun show to be a part of. It’s really something that the whole family can watch and enjoy.”

Although not originally from the area, Aaron Meisinger, who plays Friar Tuck, has worked at nearby Historic St. Mary’s City for nearly 40 years and has been involved with the local theater group since 2002.

“This show is very funny and I think the audience is going to be entertained and amused from start to finish,” Meisinger said. “It’s given me a chance to get back on stage, something that I get to do about every five years. I love being around this cast. They always say there is too much drama in theater, but here there isn’t any drama.”