A dazzling production by Milwaukee's acclaimed First Stage Theater brings to life the children's classic, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. Though a vastly simplified version of the Land of Narnia book series by C.S. Lewis, the show manages to pack a lot of wallop into 90 minutes. (This is the prescribed running time for all First Stage performances.) In retrospect, the show does perhaps stretch a bit too far. It introduces a number of characters (such as the White Stag), and situations that are not fully explained. However, the action moves so swiftly that it probably doesn't matter for young audiences.
The show is not recommended for children under 6, and the reasons become clear when the four youngsters step through the back of an oversized wardrobe and into the fantastical Land of Narnia. All sorts of strange creatures, such as centaurs, fauns, nymphs and a unicorn, populate this magical world. There's also a diabolical White Witch, who masquerades as a queen. The good vs. evil characters are quickly established.
The one ambiguous character is Mr. Tumnus, a faun. Although he is described by others as being evil, he is quickly persuaded by the diminutive Lucy, a "child of Eve," to straighten up. The pivotal character of Tumnus (at least pivotal in this adaptation) is aptly performed by D. Lance Marsh. His grimaces, grins and loose-limbed pratfalls are reminiscent of the Scarecrow in the Judy Garland film, "The Wizard of Oz." In fact, the whole production shares faint similarities with Oz.
The set design showcases the intimate theater splendidly. Narnia's glimmering white forest gleams with twinkling lights.
The show is double cast (child actors only); this reviewer caught the "white cast" at a Sunday matinee. The young actors who appear as the two sisters and two brothers are impressive. They enunciate clearly (with the help of wireless microphones) and move naturally onstage. Peter, the eldest boy, shows a great sensitivity as played by J.J. Phillips. His character seems to mature before our eyes. Also noteworthy is Debra Babich, who shatters the rafters as the resplendent White Witch. Norman Moses gets quite a few laughs as the playful Mr. Beaver. Adults in the audience will especially appreciate Moses' antics, as he is a longtime Milwaukee-based actor. The other adult and child performers in this large cast also are fine.
The tricky final battle between good and evil is done in slow motion. This is no small feat with 30 characters onstage. Credit for this scene goes to fight choreographer Richard Hedderman. Multi-talented Rick Rasmussen does an excellent job in creating the set, as well as designing all the intriguing costumes. This brief glimpse into the Land of Narnia may not have enough substance for loyal C.S. Lewis fans, but it's probably just the right amount for catching a child's imagination. With luck, it may inspire older children to read these classic stories.
