Robin Hood – Williamson Park, Lancaster

It’s the season where outdoor theatre takes centre stage and in the spotlight this year at Williamson Park in Lancaster it’s Robin Hood. 

Written by Daniel Bye, directed by Elvi Piper and presented by The Dukes, this adaptation of a well known classic is full of humour, with catchy music by Bay Bryan and Claire O’Connor. It follows Rob (Joe Parker), who suddenly finds himself a hero after killing the original Robin Hood, as he navigates the baddy Sheriff (Ian Crowe) who is trying to marry off the feisty Maid Marian (Hope Yolanda) to the hilarious (and show-stealing) Prince Foppingham (Matthew Ganley). 

The camaraderie of the six-strong cast is clear from the get go and the performers really do a good job of getting the audience involved – with great interactive elements for the little ones in the archery and wedding scenes – while keeping the narrative flowing and the panto-esque humour going (especially the jokes by Tuck, played by the very charismatic and watchable Lisa Howard). And if you could give five stars for one performance alone, that would go to Ganley – who is the Lord Farquaad to the Shrek and the King to the Hamilton, in having a cameo role that simply steals the show (his introduction to the interval is a real moment!).

There’s a few worries you would have before booking an outdoor production including the weather and the sound quality. And while one out of the two is out of the hands of the creatives, they do a very impressive job with the latter.

Being an outdoor production, you have the option of bringing your own chair or picnic blanket. But a top tip, if you bring a chair, give yourself plenty of time when ‘doors open’ to secure a good spot for the first scene. And don’t forget your bug spray and something warm! 

Now unlike many outdoor productions, where you are located in one spot, this one, as in previous years, takes you on a tour of the park – with different scenes taking part in different locations. Some allow you to use your own chairs and blankets while others have outdoor seating (albeit not the most comfortable) to use. The moving element is unique and definitely keeps things exciting and entertaining but it does generate crowds and it does mean with the walk and slight gap between scenes, that an interval doesn’t feel warranted – although the cabins serving refreshments and the entertainment directly outside the park monument is a welcome treat (and probably a huge source of income) during the break. It does also mean that it’s a late one for any little ones, with you leaving the park around the 10pm mark. 

But for the most part, the novelty far outweighs any frustration – and the park really is something special, with amazing spaces that bring art and nature together in a beautiful and mesmerising way. There’s something so magical about watching a performance as the sun goes down, following the fairy lights and hearing the laughter from both adults and children alike – truly believing that just for a moment, you could be in the heart of Sherwood Forest itself. 

Runs until 23 August 2026.