Review: Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story at Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre

“…packed with music, laughter and energy…”

Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story by Kieran Lynn, Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre, Chester

By Abi Kelly

There’s something completely magical about spending a summer evening in Grosvenor Park. Storyhouse’s Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story feels perfectly at home there. This production transforms a familiar tale into an evening packed with music, laughter and energy.

The production follows Robin and his band of Merry “Men” as they hatch an audacious plan to pull off Nottingham’s greatest ever heist, stealing the riches brought into the city by the tyrannical King John. While the premise remains recognisable, the script injects enough wit and modern humour to keep the story feeling fresh.

Staging theatre in the round is no easy feat. Although the set remains fixed throughout the performance, clever choreography and inventive blocking ensure the action never feels static. Every corner of the theatre is utilised, creating a dynamic performance that constantly rewards whichever side of the audience you’re seated on.

The cast deliver strong performances across the board, with particularly impressive work from the leading duo. Hats off to the Merry Men – their impeccable comic timing keeps the audience laughing throughout. The ensemble chemistry is evident from the outset, creating the feeling that this is a company thoroughly enjoying themselves on stage.

Music plays a huge role in the production’s success. Merseyside audiences have become accustomed to productions filled with exceptional musical talent, and Outlaws certainly doesn’t disappoint. The cast effortlessly swap between instruments while delivering polished vocal performances. Marian’s vocals are outstanding; Annabelle Aquino brings an emotional weight to the production’s more heartfelt moments without ever slowing its energetic pace.

The fight choreography also deserves special praise. It balances humour and tension remarkably well. It was clearly well-rehearsed and exciting to watch; each sequence is carefully staged to maintain both pace and clarity, adding genuine spectacle to Robin Hood’s daring exploits.

Perhaps the production’s greatest strength lies in its relationship with its audience. The laughter rarely subsides, thanks to a script packed with sharp comedy and performers who know exactly how to land every punchline. Audience interaction is woven naturally into the show, inviting participation without ever placing anyone under uncomfortable pressure. Instead, spectators become part of the fun, creating an atmosphere that feels welcoming and genuinely communal.

Storyhouse’s Grosvenor Park season has always been about more than simply watching a play, and Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story continues that tradition. With reasonably priced food and drink available before and mid performance, beautiful surroundings and the summer weather enhancing the experience, the evening feels like an event rather than a trip to the theatre.

If you can’t make it to Sherwood Forest this summer, Robin Hood’s Nottingham is the next best thing. Packed with laughter, inventive staging and heartfelt performances, Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story is an evening of entertainment. And if Robin Hood isn’t your usual choice of theatre, Storyhouse’s summer programme is well worth exploring. You’ll come for the show, but you’ll come back for the experience.

Outlaws: A Robin Hood Story plays at Storyhouse, Chester until Sunday 23 August. Tickets are available here.

Abi Kelly is a writer and theatre enthusiast who has studied both Drama and Scriptwriting. A lover of weird and wonderful stories, she’s usually found at home with a book in hand or deep in a theatre seat.