Curve Theatre, Leicester – until 8th February 2025 (accessible performances 6th, 7th and 8th February)
Reviewed by Leanne W
5*****
C S Lewis wrote the story of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe 75 years ago. A much loved story which was televised on a Sunday afternoon during my childhood (the longest of waits between each episode, there was no binge watching in the 80s!) A story for all to love then, and a story which will continue to bring joy to future generations, the excited children leaving the theatre assured me of that.
The story concerns four evacuees who find themselves in Aberdeen and in the home of an eccentric professor (Kraig Thornber) – who happens to have a very special wardrobe in his spare room. This performance is expertly crafted from Sally Cookson’s original production and realised under Michael Fentiman’s Direction.
From the moment we enter the theatre the were treated to a lone pianist playing some old war time classics and framed by a huge lit circle. This framed the action throughout giving a sense that we were looking in to another world. On the stage were several smaller circles which double as a further window in to the story – the moon being a particularly enchanting use. The moveable aspects of the set were expertly steered in and out of position by the cast, and all seemed to seamlessly appear and leave as the story moved on. A highlight for me was the turning of a crank handle to produce the all-important lamppost from inside the piano.
The costumes were simple and yet extraordinarily effective, we knew who all the animals were without the need for a mask or a full outfit made from fur. The use of snow shoes to provide tails for Mr and Mrs Beaver (Jaya De Villiers and Ed Thorpe) was marvellous. What also caught my eye was how even when we were seeing the action in Narnia the reminder of the war was ever present, incorporating the use of muted tones, military style headwear and the odd aviator hat, complete with goggles, continuing the theme.
This was a play with music and the haunting melodies really added to the stark feelings of everlasting winter in Narnia. We were excited by the arrival of Santa and the Bringer of Gifts song. Whilst the music was not overly memorable if should be stated that it does what it is supposed to do; and that is to add to the story and not to replace any dialogue as we may expect from a musical. I really enjoyed seeing the band on stage and all in role as their various characters playing away merrily.
There are moments of puppetry, mainly Schrödinger the cat and Aslan (who was also played by Stanton Wright, a considered and powerful portrayal) – from the small to the large added to the magic.
Whilst I cannot say there were any standout performances, the play is very well cast and each and every portrayal wonderful. Joanna Adaran, Jesse Dunbar, Kudzai Mangombe and Bunmi Osadolor gave convincing performances as the children. Katy Stephens a delightfully mean White Witch with her pretty scary sidekick Maugrim (Shane Anthony-Whiteley) and an entire cast who multi-role the whole show leave too many to mention.
In summary this is a fantastic production, a fabulous set, beautiful music, clever costume, puppetry, magic and a wonderful story. Everything we love about live theatre.