A Wardrobe Full of Wonder – Narnia Casts Its Spell on Edinburgh
Celebrating the 75th anniversary of C.S. Lewis’ beloved novel, this touring production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is nothing short of spellbinding. From the moment the house lights dimmed, the audience was transported – not just into a story, but into the atmosphere of wartime England. With its evocative period details and thoughtful staging, the show was immediately immersive, capturing the era’s sense of quiet resilience. It truly felt like stepping back in time.
One of the early highlights came in the form of a poignant on-stage rendition of We’ll Meet Again, played by a live pianist. This beautifully tender moment helped set the emotional tone of the piece and provided a moving connection between the historical reality of the Pevensie children and the fantasy they were about to encounter.
When the wardrobe doors opened, the magic truly began. The production is a triumph of theatrical storytelling, weaving heart, wonder, and stagecraft with remarkable finesse. With a cast of 22, the show somehow felt twice as large – a testament to the commanding performances and seamless ensemble work that brought the world of Narnia vividly to life. The doubling of roles was handled so deftly that it was easy to forget how small the company actually was.
The set, while relatively simple, was transformed by imaginative lighting and smooth, stylised transitions. Clever choreography and movement ensured each shift in location felt organic and compelling. Combined with expert lighting design, the result was a fluid, dreamlike quality that drew the audience ever deeper into the narrative.
Music was another standout feature of the production. The cast played instruments live on stage, blurring the lines between actor and musician. The music felt ethereal and immersive – never just accompaniment, but an intrinsic part of the storytelling that elevated key emotional moments and added rich texture throughout.
The production also boasted some truly memorable performances. Katy Stephens commands the stage as the White Witch, delivering a performance that is as icy and menacing as it is mesmerising. Her portrayal perfectly captures the dark glamour of Narnia’s tyrant – regal, seductive, and terrifying in equal measure. Every scene she appeared in bristled with tension, and her chilling authority made her a magnetic centre of the drama.
Special mention must go to Ed Thorpe and Anya de Villiers as Mr and Mrs Beaver, who were effortlessly funny, warm, and engaging. Their comic timing and chemistry provided welcome lightness while maintaining the show’s emotional sincerity.
Craig Thornber also deserves high praise for his versatility, playing multiple roles with clarity and presence. His performance as The Professor was particularly compelling, exuding warmth and eccentricity. But it was his manipulation of the puppet cat Schrodinger – a hilarious and well-judged moment of comedy – that stole the show. His comic timing was impeccable, and his stage presence consistently strong throughout.
Perhaps most impressively, the puppetry across the entire production was simply magnificent. The expressive design and sophisticated movement work brought creatures like Aslan and other fantastical beings to life in breathtaking fashion. In my opinion, it was worthy of standing beside productions like The Lion King in terms of both craftsmanship and emotional impact.
Whether it’s your first visit to Narnia or a nostalgic return, this production offers a fresh, heartfelt, and visually arresting take on a classic. A dazzling and unforgettable evening of theatre – truly magical.