The story of Robinson Crusoe originates from the novel ‘The Life and Strange Surprizing Adventures of Robinson Crusoe’, written by Daniel Defoe and was first published in 1719. It’s considered one of the earliest examples of the English novel and was partly inspired by the real-life experiences of Alexander Selkirk, a Scottish sailor who was marooned on an uninhabited island in the South Pacific (Más a Tierra, now called Robinson Crusoe Island) for four years (1704–1709). His survival story was widely publicised and fascinated the public. Crusoe’s journey was not just physical but also spiritual, reflecting themes of repentance, providence, and self-reliance. Robinson Crusoe became a symbol of the self-made man.

In our pantomime version of this tale, our hero Robinson and his adventurous friends sail away and are marooned on an island only for the length of time it takes to search for some long-lost treasure and get home in time for Christmas. Within traditional pantomime scenarios of downtrodden dames, heroes, heroines and villains our songs, dances and gags (which are liberally sprinkled with no attempt at subtlety), will send you home full of seasonal cheer!

Pantomime is the very definition of a collaborative effort and so I would like to offer a massive cheer to everyone who has contributed to the creation of this show – to the company, actors and back-stage teams; our chaperones ensuring that our junior performers are properly looked after; and to everyone in the front of house teams who look after you, our patrons, during your visit. 

I love pantomime! I love the silliness, the traditions, the audience participation and the fact that it’s a genre of theatre where three (or more if you’re lucky) generations of one family can enjoy a show at the same time. I hope you are going to giggle your way through our production of Robinson Crusoe surrounded by people who are dear to you this festive season! 

— Gill Halford, Director