C.S Lewis’ timeless classic ‘The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe’ is one that is ever present in many of our childhoods, and Leeds Playhouse’s latest offering takes audiences right back into the magical world and all the wonder that comes with it.
The four Pevensie siblings – Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter – stumble into a snow-covered wonderland, ruled by an evil White Witch, only to right the wrong and restore hope and happiness to the creatures that live there.
From the outset, the production felt innovative and inventive. With seamless scene changes where characters literally disappear without a trace, there was pure theatrical magic that you crave when you hear the word ‘Narnia’. Shanelle ‘Tali’ Fergus’ choreography was contemporary and unique, and was beautifully complemented by Jack Knowles’ lighting design that moved from a cold white light for the Witch to a warmer golden hue for any mention of Aslan.
I loved the use of actor-musicians and their presence on the stage created an intimate, folk-style atmosphere and a more sentimental and immersive approach. Particularly delightful were Ed Thorpe and Anya De Villiers as Mr and Mrs Beaver, whose comedic timing and heartfelt chemistry brought both humour and depth to their characters. Their voices were beautiful and blended together incredibly well.
Katy Stephens delivered a chilling performance as the White Witch, commanding the stage with an intensity that made every entrance thrilling. Opposite her was the mighty Aslan, whose first appearance was the highlight for me – I actually had a tear in my eye and my heart skipped a beat. He was personified by Staton Wright who brought tenderness and passion to his lines. However, the connection between the actors and the puppet faltered in later scenes, breaking the illusion and leaving the outstanding puppet feeling more like a prop than a fully realised character.
The stars of the show, the four Pevensies, were perfectly cast.
Kudzu Mangombe’s Lucy radiated wonder and elation at the sight of Narnia before her fierceness and determination shone through.
Bunmi Osadolor’s Edmund captured Edmund’s naivety and initially prickly nature before he admits his want for a new adventure. His emotion poured out all over the stage, transitioning easily from excitement at his Turkish Delight gift to terror at the face of Maugrim and the White Witch’s evil ways.
Joanna Adaran and Jesse Dunbar played protective and strong older siblings that helped guide the story and provided the perfect grounded counterparts to Lucy’s whimsical ways.
The four worked together excellently and their singing voices blended beautifully, I just wish we had more of an opportunity to enjoy their stunning voices throughout rather than just a few lines towards the end.
Despite its many strengths, however, there were a couple of challenges. On the night, there were a few microphone, staging / prop, and costume issues – I mean, what’s a beaver without his tail? Though these made it feel unpolished, thankfully they didn’t detract from the magic on the stage.
I also felt that although the choreography and approach was contemporary and unique, the mix of wartime themes and modern elements felt slightly disjointed at times. Perhaps committing to a solely modern take rather than a 50/50 approach would have felt more realised and intentional.
It’s also important to note that although this is advertised as a family production, there are a few moments that could be quite intense for younger viewers. There is also a big lack of opportunities to show our appreciation – the first time we were able to applaud was almost an hour in!
All that being said, The Lion The Witch and The Wardrobe is a truly magical and enchanting production and I would walk through many wardrobes to see it again!
**** stars
Jasmine Richards
Join Jasmine every Saturday at 6pm with ‘The Sound of Musicals’ here on Box Office Radio
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Photo credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg
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