Step through the wardrobe into the magical kingdom of Narnia where a world of wonder awaits. The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe bursts onto the HMT stage from 17th-21st June 2025 with roaring delight!
Celebrating the 75th anniversary of C.S. Lewis’s classic novel, watch The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe come to life in this spectacular eye catching production – a true joy to watch for all ages.
The story follows four children, Peter (Jesse Dunbar), Susan (Joanna Adaran), Edmund (Bunmi Asadolor), and Lucy (Kudzai Mangombe), as they’re evacuated to the country during the war and find themselves staying with an eccentric old professor (Kraig Thornber) and his cat Schrödinger. One day Lucy climbs through a mysterious antique wardrobe in the spare room and is instantly transported to the mystical world of Narnia. This fantasy world is inhabited entirely by animals and magical creatures who are stuck under the reign of the evil White Witch (Katy Stephens). They have been desperately awaiting the arrival of the “sons of Adam and Daughters of Eve” in hope that, with the help of the mighty Aslan, they will defeat the White Witch and bring an end to the eternal Winter in Narnia.
The first thing that strikes me was how this production is truly an ensemble piece. Every moment on stage requires the entire cast to come together in perfect harmony (both vocally and physically). This was beautifully highlighted through the stunning movement sequences and accompanying music. Another aspect of the production that truly brought the atmosphere together was the cast to play live instruments while on stage- it had the perfect balance of action and folk songs throughout the story. It took the whole production up a level while creating an ethereal warmth to the whole show.
The set dawned very earthy muted tones that helped draw you into the action that was to unfold onstage. While the set is overall relatively simple, it was transformed by imaginative lighting and smooth, stylised transitions. Clever choreography and movement ensured each shift in location felt natural and compelling. Combined with expert lighting design, the result was a fluid, dreamlike quality that drew the audience ever deeper into the narrative. Every minor detail merges together to create the total magical illusion, heavily supported by Jack Knowles’ stunning lighting design and Tom Paris’ interactive set, moving set pieces, and incredible costumes.
This incredible production did not fall short in delivering some truly memorable performances. Peter (Jesse Dunbar), Susan (Joanna Adaran), Edmund (Bunmi Asadolor), and Lucy (Kudzai Mangombe) portray their characters as siblings perfectly. From the ups and downs to the bickering and making up- the bond between these four cast members can be felt! The synchronisation and comedy timing between the characters was breathtaking- you would truly believe they are real life siblings!
Katy Stephens commanded the stage with her chilling presence as the ice cold White Witch. The tension created each time she stepped on stage sent shivers down your spine! A force to be reckoned with! Another stand out was Ed Thorpe and Anya de Villiers as Mr and Mrs Beaver who I believe brought a comforting warmth to the story! Both actors were effortlessly funny, charming and engaging. Their comic timing and chemistry provided welcome lightness while maintaining the show’s emotional sincerity.
Craig Thornber’s performance as The Professor gave eccentricity and pure comedy gold that stole the show! Stanton Wright as the mighty Aslan captured the regal magnificence and wisdom of the character completely effortlessly.
Perhaps most impressively, the puppetry across the entire production was simply magnificent. The attention to detail through every single movement big or small was absolutely astounding. Each expressive design and sophisticated movement brought creatures like Aslan and other fantastical beings to life beautifully.
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is an unforgettable story that is loved by all ages. Whether it’s your first visit to Narnia or a nostalgic return, this production offers heartfelt warmth along with a feast for the eyes visually! You will not be disappointed! A captivating and truly memorable evening of theatre – nothing short of pure magic!
Grab your tickets here: https://www.aberdeenperformingarts.com/whats-on/the-lion-the-witch-and-the-wardrobe-2/
Theatre Scotland 
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