Maidenhead Drama Guild to perform Robin Hood pantomime at Norden Farm

“As you walk into theatre, just release your inner child.”

That’s the message for theatre-goers set to attend Maidenhead Drama Guild’s production of Robin Hood this festive season.

The amateur theatre company will be delivering its show at Norden Farm as part of the venue’s 25th anniversary celebrations.

Director Simon Kelly said it would be the first time a pantomime had been staged at the theatre and the cast are bubbling with excitement to perform.

“Because it is at Norden Farm, it gives us a lot more scope for the production with the lighting, the set, the sound,” he said.

“Everything is top quality. Being able to perform in that space gives us a lot of creativity.

“We’re excited about it and I know it was a draw for quite a lot of the cast to come and do it.”

Maidenhead Drama Guild traditionally performed its pantomimes at the Desborough Suite in Maidenhead Town Hall but this stopped during the COVID pandemic. The group has since used Holyport Village Hall to stage its shows but the switch to Norden Farm represents a significant opportunity.

The show, set to run from December 16-21, will follow the traditional tale of Robin Hood fighting the evil Sheriff of Nottingham to win the hand of Maid Marian. Audiences for this family-friendly show should be ready to participate and join in the fun.

Simon added: “People can expect a traditional pantomime with lots of jokes, a few local references, some great songs everybody will know and lots of audience participation.

“The audience don’t get off scot-free. They can’t just sit there and watch it and we absolutely need them to play their part.

“There’s lots for them to get involved in — especially at the end where they may find themselves in competition with each other. As you walk into the theatre, just release your inner child. My only advice to everybody is to go there, sit back, enjoy it and join in.”

Simon has been involved with the Maidenhead Drama Guild for 25 years and said its inclusive nature has kept him coming back year after year.

“We’re a very inclusive, friendly group and we just do it for the fun and love of performing,” he said. “We’ve got some very talented actors, singers and dancers in the group as well as people who are maybe doing it for the first time. That’s what makes it great to belong to. We’re very welcoming and even if you think you can’t act, we will get the best out of you.”

Visit norden.farm to book tickets.

Maidenhead Drama Guild's production of Robin Hood is showing at Norden Farm from Tuesday, September 16 to Sunday, December 21.