The hit West End production of "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe" is currently enchanting audiences at Norwich Theatre Royal, inviting them through the wardrobe into the magical realm of Narnia. Directed by Michael Fentiman, this stage adaptation remains faithful to C.S. Lewis's timeless story, following the Pevensie children—Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy—as they journey from wartime Britain to the fantastical world of Narnia.

The production opens emotionally with an evocative depiction of London during the Second World War, where the children are evacuated to Aberdeen. The chorus's rendition of Vera Lynn's "We'll Meet Again" sets a poignant atmosphere, grounding the fantasy in historical reality. Jesse Dunbar, Joanna Adaran, Bunmi Osadolor, and Kudzai Mangombe convincingly embody the Pevensie siblings, navigating the narrative's blend of peril and discovery with authenticity that keeps audiences fully immersed.

A striking feature of the show is its skillful balance between the gravity of the wartime setting and lighter, more whimsical moments. Ed Thorpe and Anya De Villiers bring warmth and humour to their roles as Mr and Mrs Beaver, while Kraig Thornber's portrayal of The Professor adds a charming touch to the production. This dynamic ensures the show appeals to viewers of all ages, making it an accessible and engaging experience for families.

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect is the use of animal puppetry, which elevates the production’s visual storytelling. The character of Aslan—a pivotal figure in Lewis’s narrative—is brought to life through a combination of a large, intricately designed puppet operated by three actors and the presence of actor Stanton Wright. The seamless coordination between the puppet and Wright, from majestic movements to subtle tail flicks, creates a breathtaking spectacle that exceeded expectations and captivated the audience.

The production, celebrating the 75th anniversary of Lewis's novel, runs at Norwich Theatre Royal until July 12, with tickets ranging from £15 to £52. Recognising the importance of accessibility, the theatre offers audio-described, touch tour, and captioned performances, ensuring that a wide range of audiences can experience the magic of Narnia.

While the Norwich staging has received widespread praise for its faithful adaptation and visual effects, feedback from other venues shows some variance. A notable London production at the Gillian Lynne Theatre drew acclaim for its set design, lighting, and sound, with critics highlighting the spellbinding spectacle and puppetry. On the other hand, some audience reviews from other tour locations have mentioned occasional low-budget elements in props and costumes, which may affect the overall magical experience for some.

Nonetheless, the Norwich production stands out for its emotional depth, professional handling of a brief technical disruption, and its captivating puppetry, particularly the portrayal of Aslan which many describe as the highlight of the show. It remains a must-see for anyone eager to rediscover the magic of Narnia in a live theatrical setting.

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Source: Noah Wire Services