Review: THE LION, THE WITCH & THE WARDROBE, The Alexandra Birmingham - UK tour
Photo credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg
The world of Narnia is a fictional place that people are familiar with across the generations. Based on C.S Lewis’ epic novel, it is no mean feat to physically recreate the vast, magical land we’ve come to know and love. It is something that the 2005 film did extremely well but the currently touring stage production is something else.
Tom Paris’ touring set is not overly complex but has an ethereal quality even from the pre-show state. A large clock (without hands) dominates the playing space representing the halting of time in the ‘real world’ whilst in Narnia. This clock face also acts as a pendulum which can be swung to one side to reveal an effective upper level where performers can ‘overlook’ the onstage proceedings. Paris’ costumes have a lovely contrast between 1940’s war time England to the other worldly, sometimes animalistic nature of those in Narnia’s winter - complete with the iconic ‘fur’ coats that the four Pevensie children don once through the wardrobe. The colour palette is exquisite against the set and Jack Knowles’ superb lighting design.
Max Humphries’ puppets are beautiful and incredibly striking, with Aslan being one of the stars of the show…along with Schrodinger the cat, of course. Toby Olie’s puppetry direction pays great attention to detail, which the talented cast execute perfectly.
Michael Fentiman’s direction, Shannelle ‘Tali’ Fergus’ choreography and Dan Canham’s movement consultancy is a representation of true theatrical collaboration. The way that we are transported from world to world is brilliantly stylised and rather extraordinary to watch. A play with music as opposed to a musical, the inclusion of actor-musicians can be a fine line to walk but they greatly add to the feel of the production here, with stunning composition by Benji Bower and Barnaby Race, and flawless sound design by Gareth Tucker and Ian Dickinson.
The majority of the cast play multiple characters throughout the piece, with the ensemble being integral in creating this world. Samantha Womack is faultless as The White Witch. She is a hugely charismatic presence whenever on stage, with her clipped tone and every move feeling very intimidating. The Pevensie children: Ammar Duffus (Peter), Robyn Sinclair (Susan), Shaka Kalokoh (Edmund) and Karise Yansen (Lucy) are a perfect quartet. They have very different defining characteristics yet come together as a uniform collective. Yansen particularly impresses in her professional theatre debut and is the heart and soul of the piece.
Majestic and captivating.
***** Five stars
Reviewed by: Jenny Ell
The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe plays at the Alexandra until 12 March, with tickets for this venue and other select touring venues available here.
Please note that due to illness, Samantha Womack will not perform in any of the remaining shows at The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham this week.
