The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

Following on from their production of ‘Nell Gwynn’ earlier this year, Neston Players were back on stage with their production of the children’s classic, ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’, which was directed by Ruth Cooper and Stuart Rathe. The production was staged in the round, with the audience sat on floor and stage level. The lamppost was situated stage left on the physical stage, which lit up when needed in the story. Images of book covers and film posters of this classic story were displayed, creating a backdrop on the stage. It was relatively simply staged, allowing the audience to use their imagination to transport themselves to Narnia. The use of desk throughout was clever, being used as the Professor’s desk, Tumnus’ table, and even Jadis’ sleigh. Setting it in the round allowed for varied entrances and exits, which helped with the pace of the production, which was good throughout. The wardrobe was well constructed and the journey through the wardrobe to Narnia was cleverly done using the ensemble. The costume design was very good, with some excellent attention to detail, such as Mrs Macready’s snowflake brooch and Aslan’s cat-like eyes. There were hints of the war taking place in the real world within the costumes of Narnia, such as the Beavers, with their camouflage costuming. This was a unique way to show these characters, and it really worked.

Lighting and sound added to this production. The soundscape created was varied and interesting, adding to the scenes. The sound balance was good, allowing the cast to be heard over it. The lighting was good, allowing all areas of the stage to be lit.

The Pevensie children were played by Adam Stubbs (Peter), Jemma Brown (Susan), Ash Jackson-Duffy (Edmund) and Olivia Clark (Lucy). They created a good, believable familial bond. From Adam’s caring Peter, Jemma’s stoic Susan, Ash’s brash Edmund, and Olivia’s curious Lucy; these four performers led the cast well.

 As The Professor, Ben McConaghy gave a brief history of Narnia. He gave a kind and jovial Professor, which was exactly what was needed. 

Louise Ellinson played Mrs Macready and Jadis, the White Witch. Her Scottish accent was great for the strict Mrs Macready, before transforming into the cold and calculating Jadis. Louise had great poise in this role, totally commanding the stage. Louise was ably assisted by Alexander Breathnach as Maugrim and Pauline Garland as Jadis’ Servant. Alexander brought a strong intensity to Maugrim and delivered a convincing character. Pauline stole each scene she was in. She was totally in character throughout, clearly showing that there is no small part.

Charles Riley gave a strong interpretation as Aslan. He had a very good command of the stage, drawing attention to himself. There were also moments for quiet, which Charles performed well. It was pleasing to see the different layers of Aslan’s character, which is sometimes often missed. This was a dignified performance from Charles.

Playing Mr Tumnus was Trevor Butlin. Trevor gave a friendly interpretation of this character, and was able to display his inner conflict. He created a good friendship with Olivia’s Lucy.

Mr and Mrs Beaver were brought to life by Andrew Culshaw and Ticki Clark. These were wonderful portrayals, bringing some comedy to proceedings. Their Welsh accents suited the Beavers, giving them a kindly nature. They brought humour to the production as well.

Carl Howard was a perfect jolly Father Christmas, with a costume reminiscent of the Ghost of Christmas Present. What a lovely moment having Carl in character meet with the younger members of the audience during the interval and giving them a gift.

The ensemble players (Bethany Culshaw, Emma Cullender, Grace Stanger, Imogen Gate, Robert Page and Sarah McGinty) were focussed throughout, playing a range of characters. The use of physical theatre to create entering Narnia was an innovative idea that worked very well. These performers added to the scenes with choral speaking to emphasise certain moments throughout, as well as using their voices as one to create Giant Rumblebuffin – a clever and satisfying way to create this character.

Overall, this was a good production. The ensemble playing was very good, the direction was strong, and there were some great characterisations.

A big thank you to everyone at Neston Players for their kind invite and their hospitality.

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