The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe @ The Rep

The Rep in Birmingham is well known for having a big hitting show at Christmas and this year was no exception. Arriving straight from the West End is a captivating production of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. I went with high expectations and this show did not disappoint.

Staying true to the original book, the show begins with the evacuation of Lucy, Susan, Edmund and Peter to Aberdeenshire. Sensible Susan is my favourite and she was the calm and reassuring presence whilst Edmund quickly takes on his irksome character. All of the actors were superbly cast and true to the characters that I read about as a child many years ago.

The special thing about this production is the mixture of acting, music and dance. There is no orchestra in the pit. Why? Because they are on the stage acting and playing music all from memory. This is something that I haven't seen on stage before and it was captivating to watch. One of the scenes which did this brilliantly was right at the end when Aslan triumphs and everyone danced for joy.

The show has a long run until 28th January and many tickets are already sold. If you are thinking of going, I recommend this show soon for a Christmas treat. When the children go through the wardrobe, Narnia is a icy place where, for over a hundred years, it has been winter but never Christmas. When Aslan begins his return, the talented actor David Birrell arrives on stage as a very plump and joyful Father Christmas spreading cheer and bringing presents for the children and animals. (This was my favourite scene!)

The show is ideal for mixed age families. It is recommended for age 6+ probably because the evil White Witch and her wolves are a little scary! However, the White Witch is also spectacular, at one point lifted high in the air with her dress spinning and twisting down to the ground. Alongside the actors are superb puppets. The grand Aslan puppet was spectacular but Schroedinger, the amusing cat belonging to the eccentric professor, stole the audience's heart.

My daughter's school is bringing a whole year group to see the show in the run up to the Christmas and I'm excited for her. She loves the story and I now know what a Christmas treat lies in store for her when she sees the show.

Special thanks to The Rep for inviting us along to review the show.

Photos by Mark Senior

https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/whats-on/the-lion-the-witch-and-the-wardrobe/

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