SPRING VALLEY – As the cast of “The Legend of Robin Hood … Sort Of” rehearsed last week at Spring Valley Stagehands Theatre, it was obvious they were having fun. The chemistry was on full display between the Spring Valley High School cast as they prepared for their upcoming shows.

The story tells the familiar tale of Robin Hood and his band of merry men – with a twist.

“It’s more comedic,” senior Trista Falde (Maid Marian) said. “There are a lot more funny parts and hidden jokes.”

There are other surprises sprinkled throughout the production, so pay close attention.

“Keep an eye out for characters who haven’t been in the original,” said Danielle Nyhus. “They are there for a reason.”

While many cast members have been in past productions, the 2023 show has attracted new actors. Sam Miller, who plays King John, is performing in a play for the first time. He’s surprised that he likes it.

“I never thought that I would enjoy acting,” Miller said. “My parents really encouraged me to try and I’m glad that I actually tried it, because I’ve had a lot of fun. It’s the highlight of my day and getting to see all of my friends. My friends have been trying to convince me to do it for quite a while.”

Caleb Bartko, who plays Little John, is also trying out acting for the first time.

“It’s been an adventure,” Bartko said. “When I first told my mom, she didn’t believe me. I just thought it would’ve been cool last year when I saw the school play.”

Co-director Liz Erickson said 33 students tried out for the show, a larger than usual number. Bartko “dragged a bunch of his friends” to auditions, he said.

RJ Hybben, who plays Robin Hood, wanted to be in this year’s show after watching last year’s production “Just Another High School Play,” his castmates said. This will be his stage debut as well.

As with any show, challenges have presented themselves. But instead of casting problems or set issues, this year’s biggest obstacle has been the unpredictable weather. Erickson said the show had to be moved back a weekend due to rehearsal interruptions caused by snow days.

“Trying to deal with the weather has been like trying to walk on shards of glass,” said Jacob Andreus, who plays King Richard.

Miller chimed in that learning the fight scenes has been difficult for him.

“Because at least for me, I don’t have a lot of experience using a 10-pound metal sword,” he joked. “Derek Huebel has been our trainer.”

Huebel is also the play’s co-director. Erickson said he has had a lot of experience on the set and with the Stagehands.

As for things that have gone well, Nyhus and Abigail Wines both said they love the costumes. They also enjoy spending time with the cast.

“Making memories with all of these people,” Nyhus said. “It would never be the same without them.”

“We may not all be friends, but we all know of each other, so we interact well onstage,” Wines said.

Andreus enjoys seeing how the interactions between everyone plays out. They’ve been rehearsing since January, so seeing their hard work come to fruition is rewarding.

“Seeing where we came from to where we are now is always entertaining,” he said.

Showtimes are 7 p.m. Friday, March 31 and Saturday, April 1, plus a matinee at 2 p.m. Sunday, April 2, at the Stagehands Theatre (S234 McKay Ave.) Tickets are available at the door: $8 for adults and $5 for children. All funds raised from concessions will go toward the post-prom party for SVHS juniors.

“It’s a very child, family-inclusive show,” Nyhus said. “There’s something for everybody.”

“It’s a really funny play, but it’s traditional in a sense,” Falde added. “It’s an homage to other productions.”

“And don’t forget the sword fights,” Miller said.