As early English drama enthusiasts, you are all aware that, over time, tastes in theatrical subject matter have changed considerably. The theatre is a place of fleeting fashions and trends. However, one dramatic subject has remained astoundingly popular in the English-speaking world for nearly 6 centuries -- Robin Hood!

Church and civil records from the 15th & 16th centuries indicate that Robin Hood pageants and plays became popular features of May Games festivities across southern England and also Scotland. Professional theatre continued the tradition through the 17th and 18th centuries. In the 19th century, Robin Hood remained a popular figure in both high and low culture, providing dramatic subject matter for the Poet Laureate, Lord Tennyson, as well as pantomime playwrights and mumming troupes. In the 20th century, the legend became a staple subject for the new performance media of film and television.

If you live in the Toronto area, and you are interested in the development of the Robin Hood legend and its venerable performance tradition, you are cordially invited to attend an informal gathering of Robin Hood enthusiasts, "The Greenwood Revellers". We'll be having our first meeting (& party) on Tuesday, November 4th, upstairs at The Bow & Arrow Pub (1954 Yonge, near Davisville subway station), starting at 7 pm.

Come lift a pint of ale and chat with a diverse group of fans of the Robin Hood tradition, and help us plan further social events and outings for the group. All merry men and women will be very welcome.