Narnia: A flawed production with lots of spirit

By Maja Stefanovska | December 19, 2014

Early on in Narnia, a cranky housekeeper tells the four Pevensie children, sent to the English countryside during World War Two, that they all “have that ‘I’m going to explore Marbleton Manor’ look. Forget it. The Age of Exploration is over. Understood?” Thankfully, the four completely ignore her and, as a result, are transported to the magical world of Narnia. The story, by C.S. Lewis, is a childhood classic and combines allegory and adventure into an exciting and thought-provoking work. It’s a big bite for any company to take and 9^Th Hour Theatre makes a valiant effort with the complex, often quite dark subject matter. The performance has its flaws, but manages to respect the depth of Lewis’ work while still keeping it appropriate and fun for the younger members of the audience.

The story takes the Pevensie children – Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy – to the land of Narnia, a frozen wasteland of perpetual winter (but never Christmas) ruled by the White Witch, Queen Jadis (a wonderfully expressive, over-the top Gabrielle Lalonde). After stumbling into this land, the four meet magical talking animals, as well as their once king, Aslan. The children are informed of a prophecy stating that, as sons of Adam and Eve, they are to be the future kings and queens of Narnia. They join the revolution and, with the help of Aslan, defeat the White Witch. Other than an entertaining adventure, the story is also an allegory for Christ’s sacrifice. Aslan gives his life for the wayward Edmund, who betrays his siblings and joins the White Witch, becoming her prisoner.

Narnia is a beautifully directed piece of theatre. Jonathan Harris infuses the story with whimsy and magic, while still respecting its deeper, more complex message. This is quite the intense musical, considering it is aimed at children. It not only grapples with theology, but is also peppered with all kinds of violence. Proving that he is a master of balance, Harris uses tableaus and lighting to present the more shocking scenes in an exciting, fun way.

The set is also functional and fits in with the magical, transformative theme. The transition between scenes is very well conducted. The white stag dancing across the stage adds visual interest and the dancing itself was quite well executed.

Unfortunately, the excellent directing cannot make up for the singing quality of most of the performers. The show could be divided into two distinct camps –those that can sing but cannot make themselves heard over the live music, and those that can barely carry a tune. The stark contrast between the directing and performance quality makes for an uncomfortable few moments. The same can be said for the choreographed dancing, white stag excluded. There is a rustic quality to the singing and dancing that makes it seem like the cast needed a few more rehearsals to ensure a smooth show.

Despite these issues, 9^th Hour Theatre’s Narnia was enjoyable. It managed to send us all to a magical land and the children seemed to be enjoying themselves quite a lot. Good show for the Christmas season!

Narnia, a musical based on The Lion, the With and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

Music: THomas Tierney

Lyrics: Ted Drachman

Book: Jules Tasca

THE ARTISTIC TEAM

THE PRODUCTION TEAM

THE CAST

THE MUSICIANS