Meet the cast of Robin Hood and Maid Marian: Graham Mackay-Bruce

In the lead-up to this year's #NewburyPanto adventure, Robin Hood and Maid Marian, we caught an exclusive interview with Graham Mackay-Bruce, playing Nursemaid Nelly...

How did you feel when you found out you’d be part of Robin Hood and Maid Marian? 

Absolutely delighted.

Panto season is such a big tradition - what does performing in a pantomime mean to you?

For me, there is nothing to match a good panto. It IS Christmas in this country and I have incredible memories of seeing truly brilliant panto performers when I was a wee boy in the Highlands of Scotland.

How familiar are you with the Robin Hood legend? Do you have a favourite version or memory of the story?

To be honest, I'm not hugely familiar with it and I've never seen the panto of it so it will be wonderful to do something different. I remember the TV series from the 80s, Robin of Sherwood, with Jason Connery and Michael Praed which I loved. And actually I went trick or treating as a small boy (we called it 'guising' in Scotland) dressed as Robin Hood and singing the song!

What do you hope audiences will take away from Robin Hood and Maid Marian this Christmas?

Happiness, laughter and a chance to forget their troubles for a small period of time.

What are you most looking forward to about being in Newbury over the festive period?

I love the town. The markets, the canal and the friendly people at the Corn Exchange.

If you could live inside the world of any Christmas film, what would it be?

That's a hard one! I have to say my favourite Christmas film is the original A Christmas Carol with Alistair Sim, but I'm not sure I would want to live in that world! Could I say The Holiday so I can frolic in the snow with Jude Law??

What’s the top on your wish list this year?

Enough sleep!

What’s your favourite karaoke song?

Anything by The Pet Shop Boys, probably It's a Sin.

Do you have any Christmas traditions? 

I hang up really old tree decorations that belonged to my parents, and I also buy a new one every year.

Robin Hood and Maid Marian runs from Friday 28 November 2025 to Saturday 3 January 2026. Find out more and book your tickets here.