The show, the seventh in a series of “academic-based entertainment” productions at WCU, will be presented in the style of a 1938 radio production with the cast, sound effects and orchestra all live on stage.  

“Robin Hood” is a collaborative effort between two of the university’s colleges and three departments and involves students, staff, faculty and regional professionals. In addition, members of the Asheville Symphony Orchestra will be joining music students for the WCU Artist-In-Residence Orchestra to provide live musical underscore for the presentation.

Dr. Bruce Frazier, composer and music director who holds WCU’s Carol Grotnes Belk Distinguished Professorship in Commercial and Electronic Music, said the original music draws upon a broad range of themes and influences.

Poems from 12th-century ballads about Robin Hood served as inspiration for the project. In the radio play, a troubadour relates the tales as they unfold, representing the wandering minstrels of the era who traveled from town to town spreading the news of the day. The original melodies that he sings are used elsewhere in the play as underscore to the dramatic action.

The program’s opening will feature the radio show orchestra performing masterpieces of British orchestral music from the early 20th century — music that harkens back to the glories of the English renaissance and Baroque eras for inspiration. The production also will include expressive, interpretive dance choreographed by Karyn Tomczak, director of the dance program, and Amy Dowling, instructor of dance in the School of Stage and Screen.

Tickets are on sale now and can be purchased online at www.bardoartscenter.wcu.edu or by contacting the Bardo Arts Center box office at 828.227.2479. All proceeds benefit student scholarship funds in the participating departments. 

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