Men in tights star in Harlow Playhouse's Christmas pantomime Robin Hood

Harlow Playhouse aims to hit the bullseye this Christmas, celebrating its 50th year with a pantomime production of Robin Hood.

Welcoming audiences back to the theatre are regulars Ben Parsley, as Silly Willy Scarlett, and Jimmy Burton Iles as Dame Auntie Dolly alongside a cast of professional performers.

Artistic and executive director Rory Davies said: "All of us at Harlow Playhouse are hugely excited to welcome back our audiences this Christmas. This year is even more special as we celebrate the venue's 50th birthday and the pantomime will play a huge part in our celebrations.

"Our annual pantomime is always the highlight of so many families' Christmas and we can't wait to share this year's extravaganza with you. We make the magic!"

Join the arrow-shooting heroic outlaw, Robin Hood – played by Jamie Jukes and back by popular demand for his third year at the Playhouse – as he tries to win the heart of the beautiful Maid Marion (Amy Goodwin). At the same time, Robin and his band of merry men try to save the townsfolk and defeat the wicked Sheriff of Nottingham (Tom Pepper).

This new production of Robin Hood is co-written by Daniel Bell and Ben Parsley and runs until January 2.

Katherine Hickmott and Daniel Bell, the associate producers for KD Theatre Productions, said: "Pantomime is the perfect time for a family of all generations to come together and experience the magic of live theatre whilst getting into the festive spirit.

"Especially after being away from our loved ones for so long, the theatre is the perfect place to bring families and communities back together. We shall be sprinkling our Harlow pantomime with an extra dose of panto sparkle to celebrate being back together."