Robin Hood & Babes in the Wood

The Chrysanthemums Panto Society

Robin Hood & Babes in the Wood

10th January 2026

 

Chrysanthemums once again proved why their annual pantomime is such a treasured highlight of the district 4 local theatre calendars with Robin Hood and Babes in the Wood. This is pantomime at its very best, joyful, generous, and brimming with heart. A full house buzzing with anticipation awaited the cast at the Floral Pavilion New Brighton. The opening number involved the full dance team ensemble, The Blooms, The Blossoms, the Posies, The Petals and the youngest The Buds. What an opening, they were magnificent, thanks to the incredibly talented choreographer Rebecca Gardner with her team Grace and Lucy. "Robin Hood & the Babes in the Wood" is a traditional British pantomime combining the Robin Hood legend with the story of orphaned children (the Babes) targeted by their wicked uncle, the Sheriff of Nottingham (Phil Gilroy) who wishes to steal their inheritance. The stage darkens, haunting music, it’s the Wicked Witch (Leanne Burgess) informing the audience of her intention to capture the Babes, Holly (Daisy Drummond) & Harry (Mollie Roberts) her entrance ignites the auditorium with loud boo’s & hissing, it was deafening. Panto is always about good v evil; we now meet Fairy (Maria Larkin) an eruption of cheers from an appreciative audience. Off to Sherwood Forrest, Robin Hood (Laura Jackson) & Maid Marian (Charlie Link), lovely camaraderie between these two talented performers. Robin’s merry men, Will Scarlett (Jessica Nixon), Little John (Jacob Quck), Alan a Dale (Stewie Rooke) and Friar Tuck (David Alcock). Nurse Nitty Nora (Aaron Hayes) explodes onto the stage the epitome of the pantomime Dame, flamboyant dresses, outlandish headwear and outrageous makeup, she was outstanding. Nora’s side-kick Norman (John Sprung-Murphy) provides a good amount of the rough & tumble and slapstick, a very physical performance. Two of the most popular Chrysanthemums members playing Swiggit (Jed Flowerday) & Scoffit (Graham Leigh) They are the glue that brings the plot together.

Robin Hood and Babes in the Wood delivered all the elements audiences expect from a great pantomime: lively musical numbers, colourful characters, plenty of laugh-out-loud comedy and enthusiastic audience participation. The cast clearly relished every moment on stage, creating an infectious atmosphere that had audiences fully engaged from start to finish. There was a real sense of camaraderie and shared enjoyment, both onstage and in the auditorium.

Seasoned pantomime directors Julie Delaney & Graham Leigh chose an excellent cast & production team for this traditional production. Robin Hood & Babes in the Wood delivered all the elements audiences expect from a great pantomime: lively musical numbers, ‘ ‘Don’t Stop’, ‘Dr Beat’, ‘Whistle while you Work’ ‘ When can I see you Again’ colourful characters, plenty of laugh-out-loud comedy and enthusiastic audience participation. The cast clearly relished every moment on stage, creating an infectious atmosphere that had audiences fully engaged from start to finish. There was a real sense of camaraderie and shared enjoyment, both onstage and in the auditorium

 

 

What truly sets Chrysanthemums apart is their unique community driven ethos. Performing just once a year, this dedicated company pours time, energy and genuine care into creating a show that brings people together, knowing that every penny raised will go on to support a variety of worthwhile causes. Behind the fun and sparkle lay a deeper message, this was theatre made with love, generosity and a genuine desire to give something back to the community and a reminder of the powerful role theatre can play in bringing people together for a greater good.

Congratulations Chrysanthemums on an evening of fun, happiness and the madness that is Pantomime. See you next year.

Joanne Rymer

District 4

‘NODA

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