Review: THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE, Gillian Lynne Theatre
Photo credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg
If you’re a fan of a good old fictional story, the chances are you’ve visited Narnia many times in your life, whether that’s through books, film or stage. Last night at the Gillian Lynne Theatre, it was our turn to take a trip to Narnia and we must say, it was our favourite visit yet.
We adore Tom Paris’ set and clearly so many others did too as the second audience members walked into the theatre and saw it, there were gasps. We knew this production was going to be unique and we certainly weren’t disappointed. The stage is used in a variety of magical ways to portray the story and the wonderful costumes, also designed by Paris, strike a great balance between human and animalistic designs in the characters.
Max Humphries’ puppets are mind blowing and when Aslan proudly struts onto the stage, our jaw dropped. Chris Jared/Aslan is one of the stars of the show, as well as a certain sassy cat called Schrodinger which never fails to get a laugh. Toby Olie’s puppetry direction has to be admired and he’s clearly a master of what he does. It is for reasons like this that make this show have the wow factor, for both children and adults alike.
Michael Fentiman’s direction is stylised and well crafted, and paired with Shanelle ‘Tali’ Fergus’ energetic choreography, makes the perfect delicious mix. Visually, the show is as tasty for the eyes as Turkish Delight is for the tum (and we love Turkish Delight!)
The songs and actor-musicians make the show soar, and Benji Bower and Barnaby Race‘s composition are a delight to see and hear - storytelling at its finest. Most songs totally hit the mark, though there is one song performed by Father Christmas that made us wonder if we were having some sort of trip, but we certainly laughed all the same!
Samantha Womack is chilling and an extremely enjoyable villain as The White Witch. It’s safe to say she gets the most “wicked” moment in the show, ending the first act. Elphaba, we’re sorry but…eat your heart out!
The Pevensie children: Ammar Duffus (Peter), Robyn Sinclair (Susan), Shaka Kalokoh (Edmund) and Delainey Hayles (Lucy) play their roles perfectly and are a joy to watch. Hayles is a particular standout in the role of Lucy, being the heart and soul of the show. It must be said that Will Burton has cast this whole show extremely well. Bravo!
It’s hard to put on a story this epic whilst also keeping it within a comfortable viewing time, and this is definitely achieved. We couldn’t help but feel some of the battles towards the end were a little rushed and deserved more time. Also on the flip side, the opening is perhaps slightly too long and doesn’t need to be but either way, we were totally transported and had a fantastic evening.
We would label The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe as a must-see and feel it’s a show that even C.S Lewis would be proud of.
Magical and moving. A delight for all ages.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: James Edge
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe plays at the Gillian Lynne Theatre until 8 January 2023, with tickets available here.
