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Esta Charkham, casting (series 1) producer (2 and 3)
Richard “Kip” Carpenter, the show’s writer, envisioned a youthful gang of outlaws, leading to the casting of Michael Praed as Robin Hood and Ray Winstone as Will Scarlet. This team dynamic was cemented when Charkham discovered Clive Mantle and Phil Rose at a party, instantly casting them as Little John and Friar Tuck. The search for Marion was more complex, but after considering various actresses, Charkham thought of Judi Trott, inspired by her portrayal in a poorly received American film. Her audition sealed the deal, with her look reminiscent of a romantic painting.
A partnership between HTV and Goldcrest enabled a solid production budget. Utilizing 16mm film, the series boasted a striking visual aesthetic. Production designer John Biggs cleverly maximized resources by relocating a Saxon village set within a farmer’s field, enabling fresh village settings in different episodes. Additionally, HTV’s proximity to picturesque Welsh castles provided beautiful backdrops. The cast included guest appearances from celebrated actors, with the promise of a standard fee of £3,000, effectively enticing talent with the notion of a fun, engaging production.
Shooting with arrows equipped with flaming tips was a source of tension. The actors worried about safety, especially during intense scenes. Mark Ryan, initially cast for a single episode as Nasir the Saracen, earned a permanent spot in the band of Merry Men due to his camaraderie with other cast members. Notably, some of the show’s elements had a palpable influence on later adaptations of the Robin Hood legend. Inspired by their fun atmosphere, Charkham notes how the series fostered a unique brotherhood among the cast and crew, with references to Alan Rickman’s later influential portrayal of the Sheriff of Nottingham.
During the pivotal evening when Michael Praed announced his exit from the series, the production team faced uncertainty. Charkham turned to the rich tapestry of Robin Hood’s lore and introduced Robert of Huntingdon as the next Robin. The casting process included a series of potential actors until Jason Connery emerged through a suggestion from Charkham’s sister.
Charkham highlights the distinctiveness of the show’s theme music, steering away from conventional approaches. She praises the ethereal sounds of Clannad, especially their song “Hooded Man,” which not only underpinned the series’ mystical atmosphere but also set a new standard for musical scores in medieval adventure storytelling. Despite not realizing the groundbreaking nature of their work at the time, the cast’s enjoyment was palpable throughout the creative process.
Judi Trott, played Lady Marion of Leaford
The cast underwent a fortnight of intensive training at Pinewood Studios, mastering skills in horseback riding, sword fighting, and archery, which significantly aided their character development. Trott’s portrayal of Marion was vital as she stood shoulder to shoulder with the outlaws, transforming the trope of the damsel in distress. Her background as a ballerina offered an unexpected depth to her performance but adjusting to this role was an adventurous leap for her.
Memorable moments unfolded behind the scenes, such as a light-hearted scene involving Gemma Craven’s enchantress character where mischief ensued, prompting comic interludes that lifted the crew’s spirits during shoots. The atmosphere was harmonious, with camaraderie evident among the cast.
Trott expressed her trepidation about shooting the flaming arrows, recalling times when things didn’t go according to plan. The pressure during scenes amplified her nerves, leading to mishaps like arrows falling off under stress. Safety became paramount as near accidents highlighted the risks involved. A surprising incident saw Trott unintentionally hitting a parked car while aiming, leading to the implementation of rubber tips for future shots.
The transition to Jason Connery as the new Robin Hood was handled with finesse, allowing the audience to see his character earn the trust of the outlaws gradually. For Trott, this shift brought new dimensions to Marion’s character, who navigated love and emotional barriers before ultimately becoming a nun, marking a poignant conclusion to her arc.
Reflecting on the journey, Trott feels a deep gratitude for her time in the series, cherishing the bonds formed and the unique experience it offered. She encourages fans to revisit the musical legacy of Clannad, celebrating the release of their anniversary soundtrack album, “Legend.”
Source
www.theguardian.com