The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (Musical)

This classic story is unfortunately not a high quality musical but Expressions made a very good job of the material.

The children are central to the production and they were expertly and consistently played by Victoria Glew (Peter), Ester Bishop (Susan), Ella Lounds (Lucy) and Amber Sparshott (Edmund). Yes all girls I know, but this did not seem to matter at all as each character had their own little facial expression or body movement that took our minds over the fact that they were all female.

They were all delightful on stage and managed the often exposed singing extremely well. “Please Come To Tea” was delightful. Well done! 

The nature of the story needs strong characters in addition to the children and in the ‘real world’ Tianna Davies and Rebecca Burnside as the Professor and Housekeeper of the big house were well cast.

In the fantasy world Laura Nicholson (Mr. Tumnus) was a gentle and kind faun and was well suited to the link between the two worlds. Excellent characterization here, by why no face make up?

Freddy Glew and Meredith Wynne were a very effective combination as Mr. and Mrs. Beaver.

Tori White was a commanding White Witch but remember to slow down the delivery of your lines so that the audience can enjoy every moment you are on stage.

Owain Kimber played the part of Aslan well and his body language as a lion, pacing and prowling back and forth showed potential for the future.

Delyth Wynne was also well cast as the head of the secret police Maugrim.

The tricky set changes were well managed speedily and quietly by well organised members of the company and the production was supported by some good lighting and sound effects and the small band.

This was a competent production but I felt it lacked direction at times as all to often the principal characters were positioned in straight lines or for to far upstage. Very few young players instinctively know where to find their light or how to break up a line by simply turning their body. This has to be taught. Top notes were not always secure and one wonders if the music had been transposed this would have been more comfortable for those young voices.

Never the less, I love the story and could not fail to see how enthusiastic the cast were. I had a very enjoyable evening and thank you for your hospitality.

Congratulations to all involved!

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