John Godber’s award-nominated production The Highwayman will ride into Scarborough’s Stephen Joseph Theatre this autumn, with performances running from 7 to 10 October.
Following a critically acclaimed premiere last year, the touring production returns with Godber once again writing and directing the fast-paced adventure set in Yorkshire in 1769.
The Highwayman plunges audiences into a world of opportunity, social ambition, gambling and gin, where wealth and temptation go hand in hand and a notorious outlaw is determined to seize his chance.
From the creator of Bouncers, Teechers and Do I Love You?, the production combines Godber’s trademark humour, sharp social observation and colourful characters in a story packed with action, romance and intrigue.
The show is designed by Graham Kirk, with original music by Ruby Macintosh, and stars Emilio Encinoso-Gil, Matheea Ellerby and Dylan Allcock. Encinoso-Gil and Allcock were both recognised with nominations at the 2025 Broadway World UK Awards for their performances in the production.
Centred on ambitious rogue John Swift, The Highwayman follows a man determined to make his fortune in a world where survival often depends on bending the rules. Blending romantic adventure with farcical history, the production offers a lively and contemporary take on the past.
John Godber said: “The Highwayman is packed with adventure, romance, danger and laughter. It’s a story about ambition, survival and the lengths people will go to when the odds are stacked against them.”
The production received nominations for Best Lead Actor and Best Supporting Actor at the 2025 Broadway World UK Awards, further cementing its reputation following its premiere run.
The Highwayman will be performed at 7.30pm from Wednesday 7 to Saturday 10 October, with additional matinee performances on Thursday 8 October and Saturday 10 October.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.






