With the sad news that Sherwood Forest’s iconic Major Oak has reached the end of its life, a new family production at the Nottingham Puppet Festival is helping young audiences celebrate the importance of ancient trees and the wildlife that depends upon them.
East Midlands-based Wise Owl Theatre presents Robin Hood and His Animal Friends, a magical puppet adventure centred around a Grand Old Oak and the creatures that call it home. The Grand Old Oak is the fictional name for the Major Oak within the tales of Robin Hood, and the tree featured in the production is inspired by Sherwood Forest’s most famous landmark.
The show follows Robin Hood and his woodland friends as they work together to protect their beloved oak tree, discovering along the way the importance of friendship, community and caring for nature. Developed in partnership with the Sherwood Forest Trust, the production also encourages families to take positive environmental action, with audience members receiving seeds to plant after the performance.
The timing of the production has proved particularly poignant. News surrounding the condition of the Major Oak has brought national attention to one of Nottinghamshire’s most treasured landmarks, making the show’s message of conservation and environmental stewardship especially relevant.
Chris Brookes, Artistic Director of Wise Owl Theatre, said:
“It’s quite extraordinary that after standing for around a thousand years, concerns surrounding the Major Oak have become headline news in the very same week that we’re opening a show inspired by it. Our story celebrates the Major Oak and the animals that call it home, highlighting the importance of ancient trees and the wildlife they support. We hope families leave not only entertained, but also inspired to care for nature and the environment around them.”
Robin Hood and His Animal Friends will be showing at the Theatre Royal Nottingham on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 June 2026 as part of Nottingham Puppet Festival. More information is available at www.nottinghampuppetfestival.co.uk and www.trch.co.uk Box Office 0115 989 5555.
Posted on 25 June 2026
