Q&A with theatre-maker Daniel Bye on his brand-new adaptation of Robin Hood at The Egg

In anticipation of the upcoming production of Robin Hood at The Egg at Theatre Royal Bath, we had the pleasure of speaking with award-winning theatre-maker Daniel Bye. Known for his thought-provoking work that merges social themes with engaging storytelling, Daniel brings a fresh take to the classic tale of Robin Hood this Christmas. With young people taking center stage in this adaptation, Daniel’s Robin Hood explores friendship, justice, and what it means to challenge power in a world that often feels unfair.

Daniel Bye

Can you describe your adaptation of Robin Hood in three words?

Funny. High-energy. Powerful.

Why did you wish to cast young people in the roles of the Very Merry Band and King Richard?

Robin Hood and his merry band are outlaws who’ve fled their homes and society. It’s an urge we’ve all felt! Many young people have a particularly keen sense of fairness and injustice, especially as they come to terms with the rules and regulations laid down by society - a lot of which can easily seem very unjust! So in this version of the story I wanted to explore what happened if a group of young people found themselves acting on this commonly felt sense of injustice, and standing up for what's right. Initially they’re inspired by the story of Robin Hood - then they start to live it.

You’ve worked on a wide range of projects, from political theatre to family shows. What challenges or joys did you find in writing Robin Hood for a younger audience?

I love the range of expression you can find when writing for young people. Adult audiences can be a bit sniffy about silliness - not so young people, who unabashedly love to laugh. But when the story gets exciting, or serious, or even profound, they’re up for that too.

The Egg Theatre has a reputation for high-quality productions aimed at young people. How did working with The Egg influence your vision for Robin Hood?

The team at the Egg have been incredible for the degree of support and encouragement they’ve shown for my ideas. They’ve backed me to the hilt and added plenty of brilliant ideas of their own. You couldn’t wish for better producers.

Why should audiences come to see Robin Hood at the Egg this Christmas?

It’s an incredibly exciting story, told by a team of brilliant actors in an amazing physical, visual style under the direction of the wonderful Jenni Jackson. And the music, by Verity Standen, is unlike anything you’ve ever heard in a Christmas show - it’s absolutely stunning. I’m proud of the script, but what I’m really proud of is the team that it’s brought together.

Do you have any other projects in the pipeline? 

Lots! In February another show for young audiences, So Unfair, will premiere and have a trial first few tour dates. From March-May I’m touring a solo storytelling show for adult audiences - it’s called Imaginary Friends and you can catch it at Bristol’s Tobacco Factory in May. Then in the summer I have another exciting adaptation for family audiences premiering in the north west of England. But I can’t tell you what it is until next week!

You can catch Robin Hood at The Egg at Theatre Royal Bath this festive season and experience a timeless story told with heart, humor, and a big dose of adventure. Running from 29 November 2024 – 11 January 2025, more information and tickets here: https://www.theatreroyal.org.uk/events/robin-hood/