The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe, UK Tour (2024) Review

Written by Emmie for Theatre and Tonic

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review

The world of Narnia springs to life with enchanting magic and beloved characters that have captivated readers for generations. As audiences step through the wardrobe into this timeless tale, they are transported to a realm where courage, friendship, and the triumph of good over evil take centre stage. The theatrical adaptation seamlessly rekindles the wonder and imagination that have made Narnia a cherished literary classic for 75 years.

Based on the original production by Sally Cookson, Michael Fentiman directs a production that oozes beauty that is mesmerising with every breath. From the moment the show begins we are transported to Britain amid World War II. At an ordinary train station, we meet four Pevensie children who are not just about to embark on a new adventure in Scotland but will discover an entirely different world beyond the doors of an old wardrobe... It will be down to these four children to fulfil a prophecy and save Narnia from the grips of eternal winter at the hands of Jadis, The White Witch.

Tom Paris masterfully highlights the contrast between worlds through his set and costume design, with Narnia's animals crafted in stunning detail. This production showcases storytelling at its finest, brought to life through the artistry of puppetry, aerial work, illusions, music, lighting, and choreography. What truly sets this performance apart is the innovative use of the cast to signify location changes, rather than relying on traditional scenery. Upon entering Narnia, there are no rolling snowy backdrops; instead, the ensemble dons flowing white coats that twirl and spin, creating a dynamic, living transformation that captivates the audience. The strength of this visual storytelling is powerfully enhanced by a magnificent cast, whose expert actor-musician skills give the production a commanding and memorable presence.

One of the most captivating elements of this production is the puppetry — particularly the breath-taking arrival of Aslan in the second half of the show, a moment that remains profoundly moving (even for this reviewer). It's a pivotal scene that will stay with audiences long after the curtain falls. Andrew Davison, Molly Francis, and Rhodri Watkins skilfully bring Aslan to life, while Stanton Wright adds depth through his commanding voice and expressive body language. Together, they create a presence that embodies the majesty, wisdom, and strength of the great lion, making this moment truly unforgettable.

At the core of this story are the four Pevensie children who have been well cast and captured marvellously by Joanna Adaran, Jesse Dunbar, Kudzai Mangombe and Bunmi Osadolor. It felt as those these characters had directly jumped from the pages of the book itself. The White Witch, Jadis has a huge presence. Katy Stephens is superb in this role, supported by the use of great costumes, her experience as an actor and ariel work to really develop her presence. It's the inhabitants of Narnia though who steal this show for me. They each bring their own take on these particular and fond creatures of this world in a superb style, Alfie Richards’ delivery as Mr Tumnus is particularly heartwarming to watch.

Overall, this production of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe will be one of the best book to stage adaptations you’ll ever witness. 

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is touring the UK and Ireland until January 2026. 

★ ★ ★ ★ ★