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The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe	[print]
Aberystwyth Arts Centre
Aberystwyth Arts Centre
December 13, 2009
The scene is set with a heart wrenching interpretation of the evacuation of children from London to the country. The fact that there were only women saying goodbye to their children and the reluctance of the children to go, speaks volumes and establishes the period and the mind set of the four lead characters immediately. Superbly directed by Richard Hull, this show is one of the most magical, enchanting and beautiful productions I have ever seen at the Arts Centre and would even go as far to say ever. Choreographed by Rachel West and Musically directed by Ross Doodson, the musical numbers were fantastic. With a cast of mixed ages and mixed abilities, this interpretation of C. S Lewis’s ‘The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe’ was truly a spectacle not to be missed. With an impressive and detailed set designed by Pete Lochery a great curved ramp engulfed the stage. With the obligatory lamp post and realistic trees we were instantly transported to another world. This was helped greatly by the beautiful lighting, designed by Iestyn Griffiths and the rousing sound scape. The costumes were so inventive and simple they really characterised each individual effortlessly. Teresa Davis managed to depict three separate worlds, our reality, the heroes of Narnia and the villains of Narnia with imagination and immense creativity. The whole show was a truly majestic alliance of all technical sectors. From what I understand there are two casts performing over 8 shows, the cast I saw was absolutely fantastic and I am quite tempted to go and watch the other because I enjoyed it so much. Playing the four children Clarissa Bussom (Lucy) gave a sweet and wide eyed performance and she guided the audience through the story well. Angela Woodwiss (Susan) was the level headed older sister and you felt her calm and gentle spirit guide and protect her siblings throughout the course of the play. Rhys Jones (Peter) was the strong older brother and his performance was impressive. Sam Ebenezer (Edmund) showed a fantastic transformation from the whinging, bulling sibling to the gracious hero and his singing voice was outstanding. As I said previously the cast ranges in age and ability and there were clearly some amateurs in the adult cast but they never detracted from the magic of the piece, if anything they endeared it. Performances that must be mentioned are that of Andrea Edwards (The White Witch) who was terrifying and cleverly humorous, she dominated the stage every time she graced it. Looking stunning in a gigantic white fur, you felt her power and even the adults seemed to shrink in their seats when she came on stage. She was aided perfectly by Denise Williams (Dwarf) who was the perfect side kick, her physicality was just delightful and her expressiveness brought a gentle, if not misguided liking for this evil dwarf. Rachel Culyer (Rumblebuffin) was truly spellbinding as the giant. Marcus Dobson (Mr Beaver) and Rachel Crane (Mrs Beaver) were the highlight of the show. Marcus Dobson gave a mature and enthralling performance, drawing the audience in and holding them throughout. Rachel Crane once again wowed the audience with her superb vocal ability and genuinely astounding character acting. They really gelled well together and were very believable as a loving married couple and they left me wanting more. I also thought it was interesting how they were portrayed, the fact that they are both very young was not ignored, and they were not forced to wear grey wigs and mop caps, but instead Rachel Crane looked like she stepped out of a 1950’s ‘Home and Garden’ magazine and Marcus Dobson, looked like a scruffy member of the ‘Guys and Dolls’ cast. Lastly I must give a mention to Daisy Farrington (Mr Tumnus) who was the icing on a perfectly made Christmas cake. Her portrayal of this famous, beloved character was unbelievably accurate to what I had imagined when I read the book as young boy. She really did embrace the part and her physicality and vocal performance were just unforgettable. Therefore, I must urge you all to partake in the amazing, festive experience that is ‘The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’. I guarantee that you will not be disappointed no matter what your age.
Paul Hodges
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