It’s a real shame that Robin Hood is one of the lesser performed panto titles, as the action-packed tale lends itself well to the comedy and chaos of pantomime. Joanne Read has directed a fantastically fun retelling of the tale, written by Jack Counsel.

Lucy Benjamin clearly relishes in the role of the baddie and gives a brilliantly evil performance as The Sheriff of Nottingham. Peter Gordon as Nanny Fanny Annie is well practised in the role of panto dame, as one would expect- its his 19th year in the Arnaud’s pantomime!

Guildford Shakespeare Company’s Matt Pinches plays Much, the comic, and son of Nanny Fanny Annie. His consummate professionalism makes him the perfect choice for the role, as he expertly manages children on the stage, a comical wardrobe malfunction and delivers a masterclass in the ‘12 Days of Christmas’ routine.

Robin Hood contains all of the standard panto conventions that you want to see, and although the slosh scene in Act One feels a little half hearted, this is balanced by an additional bit of messy mayhem in the second act. There is just the right amount of call and response participation without it becoming tiresome, and the audience are encouraged to get on their feet and dance during the song sheet section.

The choice of songs throughout the show has been carefully considered and includes everything from two numbers from The Greatest Showman to tracks by Avicii and The Spice Girls, and all are enhanced by Verity Holt’s energetic choreography. Nancy Surman’s costume design is in keeping with the story, with some brilliantly comical touches. particularly in the dame’s outfits.

The Yvonne Arnaud has created a panto that it is hard not to grin at and tap your feet throughout, which will delight audiences of all ages during its run.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Sarah Brown

Robin Hood plays at Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre until 5 January 2025, with further info here.