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Inspiration • September 16th, 2026
|Excitement is brewing in Scarborough as The Highwayman, an award-nominated theatrical adventure by renowned playwright John Godber, prepares to make its grand return to the Stephen Joseph Theatre from 7 to 10 October 2026. Following a successful premiere last year, this production promises to deliver a mix of adventure, romance, and laughter that has captivated audiences and critics alike.
What Is The Highwayman About?
The Highwayman takes audiences back to 1769 Yorkshire, a time filled with opportunity, social climbing, and, of course, the allure of gambling and gin. The story follows John Swift, an ambitious rogue determined to carve out his fortune in a society where breaking the rules is often the only way to survive. This play is not just a tale of theft; it also serves as a humorous and engaging history lesson, showing how the past can feel remarkably relevant today.
The Highwayman - Emilio Encinoso-Gil
The Highwayman - Matheea Ellerby, Dylan Allcock, Emilio Encinoso-Gil
The Highwayman - Matheea Ellerby, Emilio Encinoso-Gil, Dylan Allcock
The Highwayman - Emilio Encinoso-Gil, Matheea EllerbyA Star-Studded Cast
The production features a talented cast, including:
Emilio Encinoso-Gil - nominated for Best Leading Actor in a Play at the Broadway World UK Awards
Matheea Ellerby
Dylan Allcock - nominated for Best Supporting Actor in a Play at the Broadway World UK Awards
With such a skilled ensemble, the energy on stage is sure to be electric, bringing Godber’s witty dialogue and larger-than-life characters to life.
Creative Team Behind the Production
The play is designed by Graham Kirk, who has crafted the visual elements to enhance the storytelling, while original music by Ruby Macintosh adds depth to the production. Godber, known for his works like Bouncers and Teechers, has infused The Highwayman with his signature humour and sharp social commentary, ensuring that audiences are both entertained and provoked to think.
“Packed with adventure, romance, danger and laughter”
The themes of ambition and survival resonate strongly in today’s world, making The Highwayman more than just a historical play. It reflects the struggles many face when trying to achieve their dreams, often against daunting odds. John Godber himself describes the play as “packed with adventure, romance, danger and laughter,” highlighting its multifaceted nature that appeals to a wide range of audience members.
Performance Details
The performances are scheduled for evening shows at 7.30pm from Wednesday 7 to Saturday 10 October, with matinees on Thursday 8 October at 1.30pm and Saturday 10 October at 2.30pm.
