The Lion The Witch And The Wardrobe

The nineteen youngsters of The Barony Youth Theatre who took to the stage to perform this well known story were amazing. Most of them were in roles and on stage for the first time but you would not have known. The four main characters of the family who took us on a journey from their new abode through the wardrobe to the frozen wastes of Narnia combatting successfully the White Witch and her magic wand, were all clear individuals and all had their strengths. Christopher O’Donnell as Peter claimed the role of serious pragmatist trying to steer his siblings to safety. Ailsa Canavan, as Susan the eldest sister, assumed the maternal role of trying to care for the well being of the younger two. Annie Stewart as young Lucy presented as adventurous, feisty and truthful while Pancho Diquattro caught the rebellious and independent nature of one thwarted and who led them into confrontation with the White Witch. Commanding and assured, Sylvie Wyzgowski towered in this role. Her costume, head piece and makeup contributed to the iciness of this ruthless character. Helping the children gain the upper hand was Calum Stiles as Aslan The Lion. Most impressive was he when the Witch stripped him of his fur, displaying an almost Christlike acceptance of his fate. He gave the children the means of sword and ointment to defeat her. In supporting roles, Val Wyzgowski came across well as the shivering and frightened Mr Tumulus the faun, Nevah Campbell and Gracie Shaw gave us the caring Mr and Mrs Beaver and Lillie Martin and Georgia Keefe characterised their roles of Maugrim and Dwarf. As adults in the story Emily Neill and Eilidh Burns conveyed the contrasting characters of the unkind Mrs McCreedie and the more kindly disposed Professor. Meanwhile the youngest in the cast entered into their roles of of The Witch’s helpers as leopards and wolf with gusto. To me the cast seemed word perfect in all the dialogue that the drama entailed and all were audible without the aid of mics. Here was a talented group of youngsters learning the craft of inhabiting a role and of delivering lines with pace and timing. The set with the wardrobe in the centre and the iciness of the artwork created a grand backdrop to the action. Characters were well chosen. Details in costuming to suit the characters was well judged and I loved the use of fur coats and the faces of the leopards. The youngsters entertained and impressed. Congratulations to all involved.

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