Interview: Actor Simon Oskarsson on ROBIN HOOD: THE LEGEND. RE-WRITTEN at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre

Photo credit: Pamela Raith

A brand new adaptation of the much loved tale, Robin Hood: The Legend. Re-written. by former Kneehigh Co-Artistic Director Carl Grose, forms part of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre’s summer season this year. We spoke to Simon Oskarsson about his role as Boneweather/Robin Hood, turning this English legend on its head, and his career thus far.

Tell us a bit about this new version of Robin Hood and what we can expect from the show.

It is awesome! You will meet all of your favourite characters from the legendary story (and also some new very exciting ones)!

The show is full of surprises - archery, action, music that will move you to the core, multi-universes, exciting physical storytelling, mind blowing magic, parties and nightmares, belly laughs and tears, life and death. It’s an epic story told in a thrilling way. I can’t wait to share it. I want everyone to see it! I wish I could see it!

How has Carl Grose and the team found the balance between respecting the original stories and bringing their new spin to the tale?

They have brilliantly paid tribute to all of the versions of Robin Hood that we know (Disney, numerous different films, series and books) and woven it all into our unique, witty, playful and sometimes dark telling of Robin Hood.

This production also explores big questions like - who owns England? Who owns the land? Who did they buy it from? Or could it be that they just took it? It shows the power of nature, the power of the people and how we still can be connected spiritually and emotionally to our lost loved ones.

When I first read the script I was blown away by it. It was so exciting to even just imagine it playing out on stage.

You are one of a number of actors set to play Robin Hood in this production. Who is your Robin?

My Robin is someone you might recognise from the past…(maybe Clannad’s 80’s music will give you a hint). He is young and adventurous, trying to make sense of what his purpose is after having his whole world and existence turned upside down.

This is your third production of Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre. What draws you back to this venue?

I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to work here. The people I’ve met here are great and so lovely. The theatre is beautiful. I also have a big passion for working on new writing and new creative revivals. I always get an exciting creative challenge at Regent’s Park, or get to learn a new skill. My favourite thing about it is performing outside! I feel so connected to the environment we play in, my colleagues on stage and the audience.

You've performed in such a wide range of different productions, including plays, musicals and a few TV appearances. How have you managed to keep your career so varied?

I am interested in all versions of storytelling, and I love the variation! I said to myself early in my career that I wanted to explore as much as possible when it comes to what medium I work in and in what type of role. I think what has kept the work varied is a mixture of; people I’ve met along the way that has inspired me to go down different routes, my brilliant agent finding varied opportunities, my family, friends and partner supporting me in going for new things and myself being open to/wanting to try!

You've performed in European venues as well as in the UK. How do audiences compare in different countries?

I don’t think I’ve felt a difference! I think the concept of going to see stories being played out live in front of you is thrilling anywhere in the world in any medium or capacity and I have felt that energy from the audience equally in the different places I’ve worked.

What are some of the things you'd still love to do in your career?

There are people and places/venues that I would absolutely love to get the chance to work at/with. I’ve found myself working mostly on new writing in the last few years which is something I would love to continue doing. I also want to explore more screen and voice-over work.

Why should audiences add this production of Robin Hood to the summer plans?

It’s one of a kind, only on for a limited run and it’s everything you want a play to be! You will be entertained, meet some beautifully complex characters and have a magical night at the theatre that will stay with you for a long time.

Robin Hood: The Legend. Re-written plays at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre from 17 June-22 July, with further information here.