This Easter, the legendary tale of Robin Hood is brought to life by KD Theatre, and at the heart of the adventure is a hero we all know and love. But what does it take to pull on the green tights and pick up the bow?
We sat down with Joe Churms, the star leading this year's Easter Pantomime as Robin Hood. From mastering the perfect 'heroic stance' to the chaos of panto rehearsals, Joe gives us a backstage pass into the magic, the music, and the mayhem.
What can you tell me about this production of Robin Hood?
This production of Robin Hood is a really fun, high-energy Easter pantomime packed with everything audiences love about panto. It’s full of big musical numbers, lots of comedy, brilliant dance routines and plenty of audience participation. What makes it really special is that it’s a proper feel-good family show. It’s colourful, silly in the best possible way, and really interactive – the audience becomes part of the adventure. It’s a brilliant Easter treat and hopefully a show that leaves everyone smiling.
What attracted you to this production?
For me, it was a combination of the role and the team behind the show. Robin Hood is such an iconic character – he’s heroic, adventurous, and he’s got that cheeky sense of humour which fits perfectly in a pantomime setting. It’s a really fun role to play because you get the action and the hero moments. It’s a proper Easter pantomime with big musical numbers, lots of laughs and a really strong cast around me, so it felt like something audiences of all ages will really enjoy.
How do you go about building your own version of the heroic Robin?
I start by looking at what makes Robin Hood such a timeless hero – he stands up for people who need help and always tries to do the right thing. From there I try to bring my own energy and personality to the role. Because it’s pantomime, there’s also a lot of room for fun with the audience, so I’m building a Robin who’s brave and heroic, but also warm, cheeky and very much part of the adventure with the crowd.
What do you enjoy about getting to be on tour?
I really enjoy the adventure of touring. You get to visit different places, meet new audiences and feel how every crowd brings something different to the performance. Pantomime is so interactive, so it’s brilliant seeing how each audience joins in and makes the show their own. You also get to visit a variety of wonderful theatres, this is always a nice part of it too.
How much fun do you think it will be working along this company?
I think it’s going to be huge fun. Pantomime works best when the company has great chemistry, and this is a really talented and energetic group of people. I’m really looking forward to creating the show together and sharing that energy with the audience. KD Theatre Productions are a wonderful company, and I am lucky enough to have worked alongside some of the cast before, they are wonderful humans and hold a special place in my heart.
How do you mentally and physically prepare for a performance?
For me, it’s a mix of warming up and getting into the right headspace. I’ll always do a vocal and physical warm-up to make sure my body and voice are ready, especially with something as energetic as pantomime. Then I take a moment to focus and remind myself of the character and the journey of the show so I can give the audience my full energy. I think it's also important to spend time with the company before the show, so that the first time I am seeing them that day isn't the first time I'm stepping on stage, we will always do a vocal and physical warm up together aswell as doing my own individual vocal, but I will always make time to go round and see everyone before.
How do you unwind after a performance?
There’s always a lot of adrenaline after a show, especially with a lively pantomime audience! I usually unwind by chatting with the cast about the performance and having a few laughs before heading off to relax and recharge for the next one.
What was the first piece of theatre that had a big impact on you?
One of the first shows I ever saw was The Lion King as a young child, but the show that has had the biggest impact on me was Les Misérables, seeing that was when I knew what I wanted to do as a career. The music, the acting and everything about it, I remember just being in awe. My Mum had actually surprised me with the tickets, we sat in a Costa Coffee opposite and she got out the envelope and I opened it and inside were the tickets, I remember it to this day.
What are your own favourite pantomime memories?
I am very lucky and fortunate enough to of had a good few years of Pantomime experiences, and they are such a big highlight of the year for me. Christmas just gone was a huge one for me, as it was the first time I had ever played the lead role, I was Jack Trott in Jack And The Beanstalk, I had worked so hard to get to that moment and I was so grateful to all the wonderful people involved in allowing me to do that, I was surrounded by wonderful people and I had the best time. I had also spent a few years as Ensemble and Dance Captain on some others which was also a fantastic time, working with great friends, and some wonderful celebrities too including Steve McFadden, Joanne Clifton, Mister Maker (Phil Gallagher) and Jaymi Hensley. Pantomime brings so much joy and its so fufilling knowing you are bringing something to peoples lives and inspiring younger people. Every panto job I have done, I have had wonderful memories from.
What keeps you inspired?
I’m always inspired by the power of storytelling and the joy that theatre can bring to people. Whether it’s laughter, excitement or a bit of escapism, knowing that a show can brighten someone’s day is a huge motivation for me. My beautiful family and girlfriend also keep me inspired, they support me through everything, all the shows, and knowing they are always behind me keeps me inspired.
What would you hope someone takes away from seeing Robin Hood?
I’d hope audiences leave feeling uplifted and entertained. Pantomime is all about laughter, adventure and bringing people together, so if families walk out smiling, quoting their favourite moments and feeling like they’ve had a really fun shared experience, then we’ve done our job.
Where can audiences catch the show and follow your journey beyond?
So we are at Harlow Playhouse 27th March-2nd April, we are then on tour:
- 6th April 2026, The Lighthouse Theatre, Kettering.
- 7th April 2026, Rotherham Theatres.
- 8th April Crewe Lyceum.
- 9th April Palace Theatre, Southend.
- 10th April Churchill Theatre, Bromley.
- 11th April Thameside Theatre, Grays.
- 12th April The Grove Theatre, Dunstable.
- 18th April The Atkinson, Southport.
- 19th April Gatehouse Theatre, Stafford.
I am on Instagram where I keep people updated of what I am currently up to, so if people want to keep following, drop me a follow, I am extremely grateful for all the support.
Instagram- @joechurms
For tickets and more information, please visit https://kdtheatre.co.uk/robin-hood-tour-2026/
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