This true classic is brought to life through immense enchantment and wonder as C.S. Lewis's famous novel has been adapted for the stage. Embarking on a major UK and Ireland tour following an unbelievably successful stint of the spectacle on the West End, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a shining example of innovation in theatre.
Although it may be thought of as more of a Christmas production, with the desire for warmer days after this cold winter being something many of us relate to currently, there's no reason to be deterred from attending when the show arrives near you. Turning 75 this year, the story has been a staple passed through generations, now continuing its magical legacy. Being forced to evacuate for the war, leaving their mother (Molly Francis) and getting planted in the unknowns of Scotland, Lucy (Kudzai Mangombe), Edmund (Bunmi Osadolor), Susan (Joanna Adaran), and Peter (Jesse Dunbar) Pevensie embarks on a journey of a lifetime, finding the mystical world of Narnia in the back of the wardrobe belonging to the quirky Professor (Kraig Thornber).
Through a myriad of creative choices that provoke such astonishment, audiences are in awe of the atmosphere created and the minds behind them. The depiction of the train is surprisingly engrossing to watch come to life, as is the snowy lands - Tom Paris's set design ingeniously gives a snowglobe impression. All of the illusions - coordinated by Chris Fisher - are fantastic additions, too, with some even making the most avid of theatregoers taken aback while embracing the piece. However, as the show progresses, a more abstract approach becomes overruling. While it is, of course, necessary to some degree when illustrating the chorus of animals, this becomes a little difficult to follow, particularly during the beginning of the second act when the plot loses its way. Several elements also seem quite scary and violent for a family production, so perhaps it is not as suitable for younger viewers as originally thought.
The company (Archie Combe, Andrew Davison, Anya De Villiers, Molly Francis, Ffion Haf, Rhiannon Hopkins, Joe Keenan, Alfie Richards, Kraig Thornber, Ed Thorpe, Rhodri Watkins, Shane Anthony Whiteley and Stanton Wright) each play one of the woodland characters, with their own quirky expressions and outlook on their situation, adorned in interpretive costumes also by Tom Paris. The most famous - Mr Tumnus - is played by Alfie Richards with an air of innocence and integrity that draws out his childlike qualities in comparison with Lucy. The four Pevensies bring their own blend of attitudes, appearing dynamic as their maturity, regardless of age or expectation, shifts in accordance with their experience. Powerful in every sense, Katy Stephens steps into the role of the White Witch with unflappable vigour and spellbinding allure. Despite the wildly inventive plot, each character (even the cat) represents qualities that are key to understanding the motives of others, even if it is that they are craving Turkish Delight.
The greatest anticipation of all is undoubtedly the appearance of Aslan the lion. Stunning puppetry, designed by Max Humphries and directed by Toby Olié, is accompanied by Stanton Wright as they appear with a grace only seen through the artistry of theatre. Wearing the most perfectly fitting wig (responsibility of Susanna Peretz) and huge furs, between the pair, they embody Aslan - you would not anticipate it ever being represented any better thereafter. It is most definitely a highlight.
The lighting designed by Jack Knowles plays a large role in depicting scene transitions, clearly illustrating character dominance alongside the effective use of levels across the set and entrancing choreography by Shanelle 'Tali' Fergus. Arguably classified as a musical, the songs featured are largely backing pieces to add ambience, composed by Barnaby Race and Benji Bower. However, in doing so, the actor-musicians embedded in the company are consistently strong in their performances to maintain this throughout.
In all, this version of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is an interesting reimagining of the traditional tale. Significantly utilising the staging and Mike Fentiman's direction to create this visionary, there are some moments of magic that transcend any pitfalls, understandably gaining a grand reception from its previous runs.
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