Robin Hood
Merry Magic Men
Robin Hood
by Harry Michaels, additional material by Pete Firman
Crossroads Live at the New Wimbledon Theatre until 4thJanuary 2026
Review by Thea Diamond
Arriving at New Wimbledon Theatre for press night, the auditorium was bustling with excitement and Christmas sparkle in anticipation of the panto spectacle, Robin Hood. Starring Ashley Banjo, Jordan Banjo, Perri Kiely and the rest of Diversity, this was set to be a night to remember.
Who could forget being completely wowed way back in 2009 when Diversity burst onto our screens, winning Britain’s Got Talent, securing first place over bookies’ favourite, Susan Boyle. And their performance last night certainly didn’t disappoint. From the moment the acclaimed street dance troop somersaulted onto the stage, Ashley Banjo’s choreography was executed so precisely that the audience went wild with every gravity defying move.
Ashley Banjo, as our hero Robin Hood, shows that he isn’t a one trick pony. He gets fully immersed in the fun and frolics, along with Pete Firman, who provides a large dose of hilarity as Will Scarlet. Comedian Pete, also treats us to a number of magic tricks and continuously pokes fun at a couple of unwilling audience members. His silly dance routines to popular floor fillers was a real highlight along with his topical jokes covering recent controversies such as the member the royal family previously known as “Prince”, the budget, and the highly popularTraitors TV show.
Panto villain stalwart, Steve Arnott, as the Sheriff of Nottingham, ably carries the minimal plot, along with the beautiful Lauren Hampton as Maid Marion, and the enchanting Amelia Walker, as the Spirit of Sherwood.
Arguably, this isn’t the panto to see if you want to witness Crossroad’s trademark special effects, or multiple costume changes and impressive amounts of sequins adorning a panto dame. But we got the hilarious, high energy rendition of “something else I’d rather be”, along with a collection of super cute little ones providing the crowd with side splitting laughs at their innocent spoonerisms. Some of the adult jokes and banter between Pete and the Diversity boys will go over the youngsters’ heads, but will leave the grown ups in stitches. If you’re after a panto this season that delivers something different, this is definitely one not to miss.
Thea Diamond, December 2025
Photography by Paul Coltas
Mark Aspen 