WIth memories of rule-bending, expense-claiming MPs and greedy, grubby-fingered bankers still leaving a bitter taste, Robin Hood’s selfless mission to steal from the rich to give to the poor has a renewed appeal.

It’s perhaps no coincidence then, that Enfield-based amateur dramatic group Saint Monica’s Players (SMP) has turned its attention to the classic medieval tale for their annual pantomime, which opens at the Intimate Theatre, Palmers Green, next week.

Speaking about the production, director Luke Clow tells me: “Recently a lot of pantomimes have been governed by the Disney films, so it’s nice to do something new.”

He adds: “Everyone recognises the classic tale of good over evil, where the public prevail over the bad authority, and we have a great script written by our chairman Warren McWilliams.”

Far from your usual “cheesy” pantomime excursion, Luke, who lives in Winchmore Hill, assures me the show “combines the best of musical theatre with the pantomime world”.

“There is a lot of great comedy, a little bit of genuine drama, but no stereotypical panto elements that would make you grimace,” the 29-year-old legal assistant explains.

“It’s a very slick and professional show. We like to think we offer a good alternative to the West End on your doorstep at a fraction of the cost.”

With a cast positively bursting at the seams with local talent, Luke describes 22-year-old lead Jamie Nicholls as having a “very authentic, natural style”, while Maid Marian, played by Joanna Martin, is equally “believable”, and has already appeared on the West End stage.

Of course, no panto would be complete without a dame, and Terry Aylott will take on the role of Nurse Nora, who Luke says unequivocally “is the best dame I have ever seen”.

Set to a modern soundtrack featuring chart-topping hits from the likes of Lady Gaga, Alexandra Burke, Leona Lewis and JLS, the chorus also come with a glowing report.

“Lots of people in the chorus have had professional training and it’s a great mix of voices, the harmonies are all there,” Luke tells me.

“It’s like a West End show, the chorus really is that good.”

Luke isn’t the only director to interpret the Robin Hood legend this year. Ridley Scott will also immortalise the story on celluloid when his Russell Crowe led epic hits the cinemas this year. But while the SMP may not have Ridely’s big budget or Hollywood cast, they certainly have the passion, dedication and skills.

Speaking about his debut at the helm, Luke, who joined SMP in 2002, says: “It has been a little bit nerve wracking, but it’s been fabulous working with such a great team and having a great cast has made my life a lot easier.”

Robin Hood runs at The Intimate Theatre, Green Lanes, Palmers Green, from Thursday, January 21 to Sunday, January 24. Tickets: 0844 414 2731 or www.smptheatre.co.uk (£10/£8 concs)