Robin Hood

I have seen lots of pantomimes over the years but Robin Hood has never been one of them.  This production was lively, colourful, and thoroughly enjoyable afternoon of pantomime. From the moment the curtain's opened, it was clear how much dedication and teamwork had gone into bringing Sherwood Forest to life. The show had a warm feel, and the cast’s enthusiasm shone through in every scene.

Under the direction of Sean Kennedy, the production moved at a confident pace and maintained strong energy throughout. The storytelling was clear and accessible, allowing the humour and character work to take centre stage. There was a lovely balance between action, comedy, and musical moments, and the cast were given the space to develop their roles while keeping the momentum going.

Musically, the show was in safe hands with Musical Director Susan Burton. The ensemble singing was a particular strength of the production, with some impressive harmonies and a real sense of unity among the performers. A standout moment was the rousing rendition of “Oom Pah Pah,” which was delivered with fantastic enthusiasm and quickly became a highlight of the evening. On a few occasions the music was slightly too loud and overpowered some of the dialogue, but this is a minor technical adjustment that would easily elevate an already strong musical performance.

Choreographer Jennie Kennedy brought great energy to the staging, ensuring the ensemble numbers were lively and engaging. The cast moved confidently, filling the stage with colour and character. The costumes were also very effective, adding to the visual appeal and helping to define each role clearly.

Among the principals, there were many memorable performances. Lizzie gave a confident and assured portrayal of Robin Hood, combining strong stage presence with excellent singing. Cleo’s Sheriff was outstanding, menacing, supercilious, and exactly the sort of villain audiences love to boo. Marion was performed with confidence and clear characterisation, creating a strong and engaging heroine.

Anna’s Sherwood Sprite was a charming presence, contributing warmly to the storytelling, though at times some dialogue felt slightly rushed. Ben’s Silly Billy Scarlet provided plenty of laughs, and it was particularly pleasing to see his confidence grow even further in the second act. Millie’s Nanny Flapjack impressed with excellent vocals, adding strength and polish to the musical numbers. Grace’s Friar Tuck was absolutely hilarious, with strong comic timing and a natural stage presence that clearly delighted the audience.

The ensemble deserve special recognition for their commitment and support throughout the show. Their harmonies were strong, their energy consistent, and their teamwork evident in every scene. While a small amount of humour felt slightly mature given the age of the cast, the overall tone remained fun, spirited, and family-friendly.

Overall, this production of Robin Hood was a joyful and entertaining success. The cast and creative team should be proud of what they achieved, a production full of laughter and music.

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