Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story | Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre

Written by Kieran Lynn and directed by Hannah Noone, Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story is a thrilling, fresh reimagining of the legendary tale that combines humour, heart and high-octane adventure in the beautiful surroundings of Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre.

We follow Robin the Hood and his trusty sidekick (...or mentor) as they team up with the Merry Men as they hatch up a plan to steal the riches brought into the city by the menacing King John. Whilst its a story told many times before, what stands out is how this production speaks to universal themes of justice, courage and hope. Audiences can be drawn into the character arch of a hero who challenges corruption in the system to stand up for those in need, and with the current climate crisis, this show undoubtedly speaks a few truths about the bleak living situations in which many face. 

With the undeniable success of Gangs of New York back in 2024, it was obvious that Lynn would more than deliver in creating a show that captivates audiences from the beginning to the end; providing heaps of humour and heart whilst also honing in on some incredibly thoughtful themes. With the direction of Noone, the production flows seamlessly; with plenty of humour and action, as well as audience participation and moments of lively dance and song. There's something that is incredibly cathartic about visiting Grosvenor Park during its Summer theatre season, and Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story absolutely hits the target.

The greatest strength of this production is the talented actor-musicians that come together to bring these shows to life. David Ahmad is wickedly hilarious in his portrayal of King John, and his ad-libbing to break the fourth wall with the audience provides great moments of humour. Annabelle Aquino and Lawrence Hodgson-Mullings have a wonderful natural chemistry as Robin the Hood and Marian, with Hodgson-Mullings giving a compelling and passionate performance. Perry Moore is lovable and charming as Little John and there is excellent camaraderie between the Merry Men (Abigail Middleton, Zoe Lambert and Rebecca Bainbridge). Middleton impresses with her musical talents whilst Lambert steals almost every scene that she's in with incredible physical comedy as well as perfectly timed one-liners. 

Credit must also be made to the ensemble team who work tirelessly throughout, jumping into different roles to push the story forward. After being impressed by the Storyhouse Young Company (SYC)'s production Idyll earlier on this year, it is delightful to see both Lewis Baron and Rachel Uyigue make their professional debuts. Robert Wade also deserves an honourable mention for expressive and larger than life physicality which provides some fantastic moments of comedy.

Matt Baker, as Composer and Musical Director, enhances the show through the use of music as little interludes as well as well-loved hits that elevates the show to further heights; bringing further joy to the production with both songs well suited in pushing the narrative as well as songs selected for great comedic effect. Paired with Jess Williams' choreography; there is a clear sense of vibrancy and energy in these musical moments and there is a clear sense of enjoyment and joy amongst the audience. 

No iteration of Robin Hood would be complete without its fight scenes, and credit must be given here to Kaitlin Howard which has the sword fights looking so believable that you could hear the audience wincing in their seats.

Whilst potential limitations to lighting and set design can arise from an open outdoor theatre space, particularly in the round, Charlotte Murphy as production designer and Ieuan Reeve as lighting designer ensures that the piece feels lived in. Props, whilst limited, are used to great effect and bring extra depth to the plot. Reeve's lighting design is beautiful, particularly when the sky starts to get dark.

If there was one slight criticism to be made here, it's that the in-the-round space does limit particular sightlines in certain scenes; such as the target being placed nearby where the audience is sat as well as the flags blocking part of the stage. Also, the flags placed meant that they were blocking certain performers for extended periods of time and more movement direction could have been utilised here.

Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story is everything great outdoor theatre should be: bold, inventive, funny and deeply entertaining. Exceptional performances, accomplished actor-musicians and beautiful design come together cohesively; with laughter, adventure and a whole lot of heart, Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story proves that some legends never grow old—they simply find new ways to inspire.

Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story plays at the Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre until 23rd August - tickets and more information can be found here.

★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Mark McNulty