Meet the cast of Robin Hood and Maid Marian: Alex Crandon
In the lead-up to this year's #NewburyPanto adventure, Robin Hood and Maid Marian, we chatted with Alex Crandon, playing the Sherriff of Newburyshire, in an exclusive interview...
Welcome back! How does it feel to be stepping into the shoes of the Sheriff of Newburyshire for this year’s #NewburyPanto?
It feels very exciting! It’s a pleasure to create this role with the team and I’m looking forward to getting stuck into this iconic baddy.
How did you feel when you found out you’d be part of Robin Hood and Maid Marian?
Thrilled, it’s such a treat to be asked back and so I jumped at the chance.
Panto season is such a big tradition - what does performing in a pantomime mean to you?
I think what’s lovely about the tradition of pantomime is that it’s such a staple piece of British family entertainment, everybody can enjoy it and share this experience from old to young. And that’s such a lovely, rare treat in this day and age.
How familiar are you with the Robin Hood legend? Do you have a favourite version or memory of the story?
Quite familiar. I was first introduced to the story with the Disney version on VHS – Oo-de-lally!
What do you hope audiences will take away from Robin Hood and Maid Marian this Christmas?
Festive, family, joy! I think if we can make audiences leave with a big smile on their face and a funny memory to share, that’ll be wonderful.
What are you most looking forward to about being in Newbury over the festive period?
I love walking across the bridge over the canal, maybe with a cup of tea, and seeing the swans – it’s beautiful!
If you could live inside the world of any Christmas film, what would it be?
Muppets Christmas Carol - every time
What’s the top on your wish list this year?
A mortgage approval!!
What’s your favourite karaoke song?
I do love a bit of Mika, so it’s great to sing this song in the show.
Do you have any Christmas traditions?
Nigella’s Turkey brine recipe – it’s a winner.
Do you enjoy discovering your character through rehearsal, or do you come in with a strong idea from the start?
I generally come in with an idea, whether that’s a strong idea or a terrible idea remains to be seen, but I think coming in with an idea of where you want to go with a character is important. But the rehearsal process is great for throwing anything at the wall and seeing what sticks.
If the Sheriff could describe himself in three words, what would they be?
Bad, bad. Bad
Do you have a favourite villain that you draw on for inspiration?
Not particularly, I kind of try to create a character that’s an amalgamation of different people. However, villains have been in my life ever since I was young. I used to run around the house with a coat hanger on my wrist and pretend to be Captain Hook, so I’ve always favoured the bad characters more than the good guys!
Robin Hood and Maid Marian runs from Friday 28 November 2025 to Saturday 3 January 2026. Find out more and book your tickets here.