I remember, as a great many will, reading the novels about the magical world of Narnia as a child. As with all good fantasy series, there is something timeless and mystifying about the world C.S Lewis created. This ambitious production brings that world to life on the stage with visually stunning puppetry – a suitable introduction to theatre for young children.
The original music, by Shaun Davey, is atmospheric and lends itself to the scenes. A Disney-like feel is present throughout, but on the whole the songs do not drive the plot as they should do – a couple of numbers are mildly memorable, but the lyrics lack craft. The set is cleverly constructed with a multitude of different arrangements and the Narnia backdrop paints the picture, but some scenes do feel somewhat lacking with painted-on flats being the only visual aid.
We meet Mr Tumnus (Jo Servi) who gives us perhaps the best musical number of the evening. His sweet tenor voice and charming persona suit the character perfectly as he tells Lucy (Emilie Fleming) why it is always winter in Narnia. Lucy’s siblings do not believe Lucy’s tale about the magical world behind the wardrobe, that is until brothers Peter (Michael Lanni) and Edmund (James Thackeray) and sister Susan (Leonie Elliot) also find themselves in the wintery landscape of Narnia. James Thackeray gives the strongest performance of the Pevensie siblings as we see him change from the stubborn, greedy child into the wise king of Narnia.
Charles Armstrong is a rather compelling Professor; he also has an outing as Father Christmas. Allison McKenzie is menacing throughout as the wicked White Witch. She channels her inner Disney villain to give the children the type of character they will be used to, yet still breathes life into the character C.S Lewis created.
There is some impressive puppetry on show as Lion King and Warhorse influences are used to good effect. Aslan, the lion, is a gallant three man puppet, excellently voiced by the rich tones of Nuno Silva who also operates the head. He sounds every bit as grand as you would expect Aslan to be – ten feet high and 14 foot long – and you can almost hear the sound of dropping jaws from the auditorium. The ensemble provide good support, creating squirrels, wolves and birds among other creatures. Danielle Bird gives a comical turn as Grumpskin, The White Witch’s dwarf slave.
There are improvements that could be made, but the magic and mystery, as well as Davey’s rousing final number, make for a pleasant evening – it might just be the perfect way to introduce your children to theatre this Christmas.
Brave and inventive in ways that not enough theatre is, especially engaging with a younger audience – but if you really want your children to experience the magic of C.S Lewis in all its splendour, then encourage them to read the novels as well. ★★★☆☆ Sam Chipman 27th November 2015
