Robin Hood at New Wimbledon Theatre Review
Written by Bethan for Theatre & Tonic
Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review
From the moment the lights dimmed at the New Wimbledon Theatre, it was clear that this year’s Robin Hood pantomime wasn’t content with being “just another panto.” It set out to be the festive event of the season and honestly, it delivered on every single front. What unfolded on that stage was a joyful, high-energy, heart-thumping delight that felt fresher, funnier, and more magical than any panto I’ve seen in years.
Let’s just start with the obvious: Diversity. Their presence alone makes this production feel not just special, but totally unique. Every time they appeared, the energy in the theatre surged. It was almost like you could physically feel the temperature rise. Their choreography was so sharp, so imaginative, and so unbelievably slick that half the time I caught myself leaning forward in disbelief. They didn’t just dance; they told the story through movement, weaving aerial tricks, lighting effects, and sheer precision into acts that felt almost cinematic. It was panto meets arena tour, but somehow still perfectly integrated into the narrative. You could hear the audience gasp at points. There was a “did you just SEE that?” feeling rippling through the crowd.
Lauren Hampton was, quite simply, beautiful as Maid Marion. She carried herself with such grace and sincerity. Her voice was nothing short of breathtaking. Every solo number felt like the air had been sucked out of the room. She has this rich, soaring tone that fills the theatre without ever feeling forced. Even in the more comedic scenes, she held onto a grounded, heartfelt quality that anchored the story. She was a true leading lady, giving the show its emotional core while still shining in its sillier moments.
Then there’s Pete Firman, who was the beating comedic heart of the production. As Will Scarlett, he was effortlessly funny and the kind of performer who can get a laugh simply by raising an eyebrow. His magic tricks were integrated so cleverly into the character, adding an extra dimension to the humour. And the warmth he brought to the role made Will Scarlett feel like someone you genuinely root for. What really added to the delight were the unscripted moments; those times when a joke landed so well that even the cast couldn’t hold it together. Those infectious giggles sent the audience into even bigger fits of laughter. It’s that cracking, unpredictable chaos that makes panto so irresistible, and Firman handled every moment like a pro.
Across the board, the ensemble brought an infectious sense of joy and commitment. Every chorus member danced like it mattered, and you could feel the unity onstage. The comedic chemistry, particularly in the scenes involving group banter or improvised jokes, gave the show a warm, communal feeling like everyone onstage was genuinely having the time of their lives.
The production values deserve their own applause. The set design was incredible, colourful and wonderfully detailed. Sherwood Forest felt vibrant and alive, with clever use of lighting that turned each scene into a mini spectacle. The villain’s lair was atmospheric without being too scary for younger viewers, and the transitions between scenes were impressively slick.
The combination of moving set pieces, bold backdrops, pyrotechnic touches and smart lighting cues made the whole show feel professionally polished and high-end. It had that “wow” factor that marks a genuinely premium panto.
One of the show’s biggest strengths is its balance. The humour was quick, clever and genuinely funny (and definitely not just for kids). There was no shortage of cheeky one-liners, physical comedy and classic panto ridiculousness, but it never tipped into being overdone. Every time the cast cracked up, it made the moment even funnier. Those shared, spontaneous bursts of laughter feel like such a gift to the audience and a reminder that panto is meant to be as fun for the performers as it is for the spectators.
Just as importantly, the show knew when to breathe. The touching moments hit the right notes, the dramatic beats were well-paced, and the big numbers were nothing short of exhilarating. The result is a show that’s hilarious, heartfelt and jaw-dropping in equal measure.
It’s bold, it’s dazzling, it’s warm, it’s hilarious and it’s absolutely overflowing with magic. If you want a show that will thrill adults, captivate kids, and leave everyone walking out beaming, this is the one to book.
Plays until 4 January 2026
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
