The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe – The Lowry, Salford

Writer: C.S. Lewis

Music: Barnaby Race/Benji Bower

Director: Michael Fentiman

This all important Christmas show for the Lowry Theatre this year is an adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe.  Although the story itself is well known and beloved by many, this bold, innovative and daring retelling is certain to wow audiences.

Under the insightful, careful direction of Michael Fentiman, the Pevensie children are evacuated to the Scottish countryside during World War 2.  Whilst exploring the house of the Professor they have been sent to live with, Lucy (Kudzai Mangombe), the youngest child, finds another world at the back of the wardrobe in the spare room.  Alongside her siblings, she explores Narnia and becomes part of the movement to overthrow the White Witch (Katy Stephens).  Along the way, the children encounter various forest animals, an anxious fawn, a majestic lion and learn about their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as the importance of team work.

Tom Paris’ clever set design allows for complex scene changes to appear effortless.  The use of clock mechanisms and the circular cut out at high up the stage allows for the passage of time to be cleverly shown and alluded to, as well as showing the change in seasons and providing an additional space for the multi-talented actor-musicians to utilise the grand height of the lyric theatre’s stage.  The use of differing heights, drawing the audiences’ eyes to all of the detail and creates a real sense of wonderment.  Creatively lit by Jack Knowles, the switch between Narina and Scotland, as well as the different locations within Narnia are bold and noticeable in an effective way.  Paris’ sumptuous costumes enable the audience to fully believe they are watching a lion, a fox, and a badger, amongst others.  The White Witch’s coat and Aslan’s fur give the characters gravitas.  The blend of puppetry, musician-actors, aerial artistry, folk music, thoughtful choreography, and deft magic tricks, lends the piece remarkable depth and breadth.  The folk-themed musical numbers pay homage to the very British nature of Lewis’ book and allows the actor-musician cast to display their many talents with great effect.  The musical numbers in Act One are a little sparse, whereas Act Two sees them come thick and fast.  Better dispersal would help improve the overall flow of the show.  Myra the Gift Giver is a delightful number, beautifully performed by Kraig Thornber.

Stephens’ portrayal of the White Witch powerful and dynamic.  Without becoming a pantomime villain, she creates a deep sense of foreboding.  Her physical presence oozes from the stage and she is truly magnificent, much to the delight/horror of this reviewer’s eight year old companion.  Mesmerising and terrifying in equal, effective parts, her performance is integral to the show’s success.  The gravitas brought by Stanton Wright as the mighty Aslan, gives the lion the majesty needed for the character, meaning the showdown between the Witch and Aslan is full of tension and power and means the audience were invested in the outcome.

The paring of Anya de Villiers and Ed Thorpe and Mrs and  Mrs Beaver respectively is nothing short of marvellous.  The sense of despair, hopelessness, joy and love they are able to convey, not to mention, their comic timing is a delight for young and old alike.

Although not a show people may initially think of when looking for a Christmas treat, audiences won’t be disappointed.  Suitable for those aged from 8 to 98, with a fusion of different elements, a multi-talented cast on a superb set, lit beautifully with a well-balanced, high-quality sound mix (Jack Knowles), The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is a wonderful choice this Christmas.  It truly is a treat for the whole family, with a good mix of despair, fear, joy and hope, as well as enough nostalgia to satisfy everyone.

Runs until: 11^th January 2026