Mirror Magazine

In the midst of a sweltering summer, the Drama Society of S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia will transport you into the magical realm of Narnia that lies somewhere between the charisma of Hogwarts and the darkness of Middle Earth. Weaving the magical words of C. S. Lewis into a profusion of visual enchantment, the team of thespians directed by Vinodh Senadeera follow the exploits of the four Pevensie siblings in their own theatrical creation of The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe in celebration of 134 years of theatre

The story unfolds during the dark days of World War II, with the four Pevensie children – Susan, Peter, Edmund and Lucy – being sent to live at a country estate, a safe haven tucked far away from the carnage that takes place in London. Here, during a game of hide-and-seek, the adventurous Lucy stumbles upon a magical wardrobe that serves as the doorway to the Kingdom of Narnia, where soon enough, she and her siblings find themselves entangled in an intrepid battle between good and evil.

The cast comprises 120 actors, 75 of who pose as enchanted animals. Those who stand out are Aslan, the lion; Tumnus, the fawn; Mr. and Mrs. Beaver; Maugrim, the Wolf; the Dwarf; the White Witch and the four Pevensie chidren. “We have made the production more extraordinary by adding a touch of Walt Disney music in appropriate places,” said Vinodh, adding that live music will be provided by a choir of thirty members accompanied by a piano, a clavinova and drums. The costumes will be made of animal skin, and an entrance fashioned as a wardrobe will lead the way to this quixotic production.

Each scene is a delicate and precious reflection of magic with a spark of childish imagination and charming authenticity. Filled with exquisite creatures of speech and supernatural nature, the play itself is trimmed with all the makings of a delightful fairy tale. The special effects and bittersweet drama adorn the audacious journey of Aslan, the lion and the four Pevensie children in their struggle to defeat the White Witch and lead Narnia into a brand new era.

After searching long and hard, Vinodh Senadeera has found the perfect set of thespians to play the various quirky characters featured in his production. For instance, Dinel and Anushka, who both play Lucy, have just the right amount of innocence and boldness, while Mario, who poses as the rebellious and resentful Edmund who just wants a little respect, confidently scowls like a pro. Of the unique characters from the land of Narnia, the White Witch played by Dilesh is one frightening sorceress, who provides a sharp contrast to the comfortingly wise role played by Shanil as Aslan, the regal lion.

Such an intricate dramatic creation is inevitably followed by its own line of unforgettable moments. From the painstaking creation of an ingenious screenplay to getting wet in the rain in the middle of the night, through a quest for sponsorships, this production is no different.

Aside from rehearsals, the cast members have been engaged in many avenues related to the production. From advertising to sponsorships, they have been their own promoters. “Recently, the boys who play the female roles had their share of fun in shopping for their costumes and arranging their hair. They made salon appointments and went on a shopping spree,” said Vinodh Senadeera, describing the extent to which the performers are involved in the production. “I believe that they enjoy themselves very much in working for this play, as drama provides a much-needed variety to their lives as students, leaders and athletes,” he added.

In a theatrical recreation of The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe, director Vinodh Senadeera opens the wardrobe to a snowy world, where kids may be kings if only they dare to be. As the curtains open and four spellbound children are transported to a site of sheer adventure, Harry Potter fans, you better jump-start your engines.

From May 25-29, 2006, The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Lion, The Witch And The Wardrobe will entertain the whole family. The play will commence each evening at 7.30 p.m., and will feature Dilan Fox and Dyan Fernando as guest artistes. The tickets will be available at the S. Thomas’ College office, Mount Lavinia, Barefoot Gallery and the lobby of Liberty Plaza. Dinner stalls will be set up around the College Quadrangle and after the show diners will be entertained by the College Orchestra.