First glimpse of Narnia: production images reveal the magical world of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

Leeds Playhouse has released magical new production images from The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, bringing to life the enchanting world of C.S. Lewis’s beloved tale. These stunning images feature unforgettable characters, including the menacing White Witch and the majestic Aslan, as well as heartwarming moments like the first meeting between young Lucy and the faun Mr Tumnus as she steps into Narnia for the first time.

The production, now playing in Leeds Playhouse’s Quarry Theatre until Saturday 25 January 2025, will embark on a UK and Ireland tour later in 2025.

The production images offer an exciting first look at the cast, including Harrogate based Alfie Richards (Mr Tumnus), making his Leeds Playhouse debut, and Katy Stephens as the White Witch, who joins the company after leading roles at Shakespeare’s Globe and the Royal Shakespeare Company. The Pevensie siblings are portrayed by Joanna Adaran (Susan), Jesse Dunbar (Peter), Kudzai Mangombe (Lucy), and Bunmi Osadolor (Edmund), making his theatrical stage debut.

Reflecting on her role as the iconic White Witch, 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.”

The ensemble also includes Kraig Thornber as Professor Schroedinger and Father Christmas and a talented wider company, all working together to bring this magical journey to life as the children travel through the wardrobe and into Narnia.

Additional performances added due to phenomenal demand

Due to high ticket sales, Leeds Playhouse has added two additional performances of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. New dates include Friday 27 December at 1.30pm and Friday 3 January at 1.30pm, providing more opportunities for audiences to experience this spectacular story.

Completing the cast are: 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), Reuben Greeph (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), 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.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is directed by Michael Fentiman based on the original production by Sally Cookson. The Set and Costume Designer is Tom Paris, Composers are Barnaby Race and Benji Bower, the Choreographer is Shannelle ‘Tali’ Fergus, the Lighting Designer is Jack Knowles, the Sound Designer is Tom Marshall, the Original Puppetry Director is Toby Olié, the Original Puppetry Designer is Max Humphries, the Aerial Director is Gwen Hales, the Fight Director is Jonathan Holby, the Illusionist is Chris Fisher, the Musical Director is Ben Goddard, and the Hair and Make-Up Designer is Susanna Peretz. The Associate Director is Pip Minnithorpe, the Associate Lighting Designer is Emily Irish, the Associate Director and Associate Puppetry Director is Oliver Grant, Associate Magic and Illusions by Spooky Nyman, the Associate Fight Director is Owain Gwynn, the Associate Movement Director is Jasmin Colangelo, the Production Manager is Phoebe Bath and the Casting Director is Will Burton CDG for Grindrod Burton Casting.

Festive entertainment at Leeds Playhouse

As the festive season kicks off, Leeds Playhouse invites audiences to step into the magical world of Narnia, alongside another seasonal treat: Mr Snow by Robert Alan Evans, directed by Amy Leach. Mr Snow plays in the Courtyard Theatre from 30 November to 4 January, promising young audiences a (snow)ball of a time this holiday season.

Listings information
All dates are on sale now unless otherwise indicated.
Leeds Playhouse in association with Chris Harper Productions & Catherine Schreiber
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Based on the novel by C.S. Lewis
Directed by Michael Fentiman
Based on the original production by Sally Cookson
First performed at Leeds Playhouse in 2017
Leeds Playhouse’s Quarry Theatre
Age guide 6+
Mon 18 Nov 2024 – Sat 25 Jan 2025. Press Night: Fri 22 Nov, 7pm
Box office 0113 213 7700. Book online leedsplayhouse.org.uk