Pavilion Theatre, Worthing – 5th December 2024 – 5th January 2025
The Robin Hood pantomime at the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing is everything a festive family show should be, fun, energetic and bursting with laughs. From the opening scene to the grand finale, this show keeps the audience entertained with a lively mix of classic panto antics, toe-tapping music and a sprinkle of theatrical magic.
Leading the charge is Nigel Clarke (CBeebies star) as Robin Hood, bringing charm and a lovely singing voice to the role of the swashbuckling hero. He’s got that effortless charisma that makes you root for him right from the start.
Janine Pardo’s Maid Marian isn’t your typical damsel in distress. She’s feisty and strong with a standout performance of A Thousand Years that gives you goosebumps.
Of course, no panto is complete without a villain to boo and Darren Clewlow-Smith plays the Sheriff of Nottingham with deliciously wicked glee. He relishes every hiss and jeer, egging the audience on with a devilish grin and just the right amount of camp.
Then there’s Paul Giddings as Dame Delia, who steals scene after scene with her outrageous outfits, cheeky one-liners and a knowing wink to the adults in the crowd.
Darryl Carrington brings a warm and playful energy as Will Scarlet, dazzling with juggling tricks and audience interaction that had the kids giggling and adults clapping along.
But the real scene-stealer is Worthing panto favourite Katie Pritchard as Alana. She’s a ball of energy with a cracking voice, playing multiple instruments and delivering a hilarious bit about Gen Z slang that had everyone in stitches. Her enthusiasm is infectious and she nails the perfect balance of silliness and skill.
The show’s musical choices are a pleasant surprise with numbers from Muse, Elvis, Queen and Katy Perry. The dancers keep the energy high and the aerial hoop act and fire performances bring some unexpected wow factor that dazzles the crowd. The set design is vibrant and festive with bright colours and sparkling details that keep the magic alive.
By the time the artificial snow falls and the streamers shoot across the theatre, the audience is fully under the panto spell. Gasps of delight and big smiles say it all. This Robin Hood pantomime hits the bullseye for festive family fun.
Worthing Robin Hood pantomime review – 5 stars
Photo credit: Savannah Media
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