The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe.
Congress Theatre, Eastbourne
Until Saturday 16th August.
In March I went to the Theatre Royal Brighton to see a stage adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ classic novel, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, a magnificent stage adaptation directed by Michael Fentiman. I absolutely loved it. Read my five star review here
Due to the size of the traditional Victorian theatre, the production at the Theatre Royal had to be scaled back. Therefore, I felt privileged to be invited to the Congress Theatre in Eastbourne to see the fully staged ‘bells and whistles’ version, which is playing there until next Saturday, 16th August, before making its return to London next week. It opens at Sadler’s Wells for three weeks, from Wednesday 20th August to Sunday 7th September.
It felt like a different production. In Brighton, there was homely intimacy and simplicity, coupled with delightful characterisation and creative storytelling. In Eastbourne, we have the full version, which uses the vast stage at the Congress to its full advantage. There is a clever backdrop where cast members are highlighted at the back of the stage, hydraulics to create effects, and huge silks being used to change the scene. Different, but just as good.
It’s always a pleasure to witness a production with a wonderful cast who remain strong and fresh, despite being a long way from the start of the tour. Last night we were treated to onstage swing JB Maya standing in as Lucy. She was warm and believable, fitting into the family group of four siblings well. The rest of the ensemble are constantly on stage, singing, playing instruments and driving the narrative.
Special mention must be made of the stunning costumes that span wartime Britain to magical Narnia, and the excellent puppetry that brings Aslan and Schrodinger the cat to life. Everything combines to conjure the magical world of Narnia that many of us grew up with.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of the story or discovering it for the first time, this is a theatrical experience not to be missed.
Tickets – Aylesbury, Bristol and Sunderland