Jason Manford to Star in Robin Hood Panto at Manchester Opera House in 2025
Comedy star Jason Manford and Ben Nickless will return to the Manchester Opera House for their fourth consecutive pantomime season, leading the cast of Robin Hood. The festive family production will run from Saturday 6 December 2025 to Sunday 4 January 2026, bringing another season of laughs, adventure, and festive cheer to Manchester audiences.
Jason Manford Returns as Robin Hood
Salford-born comedian and actor Jason Manford will take on the title role, continuing his annual tradition of delighting Manchester theatre audiences at Christmas. Manford, a household name in comedy, television, and musical theatre, has hosted major TV shows, including Unbeatable, The Royal Variety Performance, and Starstruck, as well as the BBC’s Big Night of Musicals. His extensive stage credits include Wizard of Oz, Sweeney Todd, The Producers, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Guys and Dolls, and Curtains.
Artwork supplied by ATG
Speaking about his return, Manford said:
"What can I say? It’s just the most amount of fun you can possibly have! Manchester at Christmas with my good pal Ben Nickless. To be part of people’s Christmas tradition, as well as so many children’s first experience of theatre, is such a privilege, so I just had to come back again this year for Robin Hood! I can’t wait, although I’m not sure about the green tights!"
Ben Nickless Reprises Role as Will Scarlett
Joining Manford once again is Britain’s Got Talent finalist Ben Nickless, returning in the role of Will Scarlett. Nickless, a pantomime favourite, has built a loyal following at the Manchester Opera House, having previously played Muddles in Snow White, Wishee Washee in Aladdin, Smee in Peter Pan, Silly Simon in Jack and the Beanstalk, and most recently, Buttons in Cinderella.
Nickless shared his excitement about returning for another season:
"I’m over the moon to be back for another year at the Opera House, and I’m even happier that Jason’s coming along for the ride again! We had such a fantastic time in Cinderella, and I can’t wait to create even more mischief this Christmas. Manchester has the best audiences in the country, and I promise we’ll have plenty of new routines, laughs, and a few surprises in store!"
A Must-See Pantomime for 2025
Produced by Crossroads Pantomimes, the UK’s leading pantomime production company, Robin Hood promises to be a spectacular festive treat for all ages, featuring hilarious comedy, dazzling costumes, and show-stopping musical numbers.
Michael Harrison, Chief Executive of Crossroads Pantomimes, added:
"We are absolutely thrilled to have Jason and Ben returning for a fourth season together, bringing their incredible talent and chemistry back to the Opera House stage. Manchester audiences have loved them year after year, so it was a no-brainer to bring them back together for our adventure to Sherwood Forest this Christmas."
Book Your Tickets Now
With Jason Manford and Ben Nickless leading the charge, Robin Hood at the Manchester Opera House is expected to be one of the hottest tickets for Christmas 2025. Early booking is advised to avoid disappointment.
Performance Dates: Saturday 6 December 2025 – Sunday 4 January 2026
Tickets: On sale now at the Manchester Opera House website.
