This acclaimed adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ beloved story, which captivated both critics and audiences during its recent West End run, is now touring the UK and Ireland in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the novel’s original publication.
Award-winning actor Katy Stephens stars as The White Witch. With an impressive stage career that includes leading roles at Shakespeare’s Globe and the Royal Shakespeare Company—where she is an Associate Artist—Katy was part of the Olivier Award-winning ensemble for the RSC’s Histories Cycle, portraying characters such as Joan of Arc and Margaret of Anjou. In this production, she also takes on the role of Mrs. Macready.
Katy Stephens said:
“I’m thrilled to bring this show to life for audiences. They won’t believe their eyes and ears! For two and a half hours, they’ll be completely transported. It’s the perfect way to spend an afternoon or evening – a show that will captivate both adults and children alike. The level of talent on stage is incredible. I’ve been in awe of the stunning musicianship, beautiful dancing, and powerful performances. I’ve laughed, I’ve been moved, and I feel so privileged to be part of this production. I know the audience will feel the same way. Above all, it’s a beautiful, powerful, and truly magical show – the warmest, most enchanting spectacle you could imagine.”
Taking on the roles of the Pevensie children are Joanna Adaran (Susan), Jesse Dunbar (Peter), Kudzai Mangombe (Lucy), and Bunmi Osadolor (Edmund).
The full cast also includes: Archie Combe (Mr Pope and Foxtrot), Andrew Davison (Mr Wilson Schroedinger, Jack Rabbit, Aslan Puppeteer and Head Cruel), Anya de Villiers (Mrs Beaver), Molly Francis (Mrs Pevensie, Aslan Puppeteer and Robin), Ruby Greenwood (Onstage Swing), Ffion Haf (Miss Gumley-Warmley and Phoenix), Rhiannon Hopkins (Miss Chutney and Blue Badger), Joe Keenan (Mr Granville, Spirit of the Moon and Red Squirrel), Oliver Magor (Onstage Swing), JB Maya (Onstage Swing), Luca Moscardini (Onstage Swing), Alfie Richards (Mr Tumnus, White Mouse and Badger), Kraig Thornber (The Professor, Father Christmas and Wise Owl), Ed Thorpe (Mr Beaver), Rhodri Watkins (Mr Brinkworth, March Hare and Aslan Puppeteer), Shane Anthony Whiteley (Maugrim, Satyr and White Stag), and Stanton Wright as Aslan.
C.S. Lewis’ novel, first published in October 1950, has sold over 85 million copies in more than 60 languages, making it one of the top ten best-selling books of all time. This stage adaptation was a standout success during its 2022/2023 West End season.
Producer Chris Harper said:
"We can’t wait for children and adults alike to join us on this spectacular new journey through the wardrobe and are proud to be marking the 75th anniversary of the publication of CS Lewis’ novel with this tour."
Director Michael Fentiman added:
"I’m delighted to be taking our beautiful production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe on a major tour of the UK and Ireland in 2025. The production celebrates the magic of live theatre and is led by a multi-talented cast of actors, singers, musicians, dancers and puppeteers; it is a celebration of the possibilities of collective imagination and the boundless wonders of individual skill."
Step through the wardrobe into the enchanted world of Narnia. Follow Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter as they leave behind wartime Britain and step into a magical, snow-covered land, where they encounter Mr Tumnus the faun, talking beavers, the noble lion Aslan, and the icy terror of the White Witch.
This production is directed by Michael Fentiman, based on the original staging by Sally Cookson. Set and costume design is by Tom Paris, music by Barnaby Race and Benji Bower, choreography by Shannelle ‘Tali’ Fergus, lighting by Jack Knowles, sound by Tom Marshall, and original puppetry direction by Toby Olié with puppetry design by Max Humphries. Aerial direction is by Gwen Hales, fight direction by Jonathan Holby, illusions by Chris Fisher, and musical direction by Ben Goddard. Hair and make-up is by Susanna Peretz.
The creative team also includes: Pip Minnithorpe (Associate Director), Emily Irish (Associate Lighting Designer), Oliver Grant (Associate Director and Associate Puppetry Director), Spooky Nyman (Associate Magic and Illusions), Owain Gwynn (Associate Fight Director), Jasmin Colangelo (Associate Movement Director), Phoebe Bath (Production Manager), and Will Burton CDG for Grindrod Burton Casting (Casting Director).
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is produced by Chris Harper Productions and Catherine Schreiber, and was originally staged at Leeds Playhouse.
