Journey into the magic of narnia...

A review by: Michale Romito

If you have read C. S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe than you know it is a magical tale of good vs. evil; betrayal vs. trust; repentance, sacrifice and redemption.  If you have seen any of the many adaptations of this wonderful story, you may see no reason to attend dcp Theatre’s interpretation of Joseph Robinette’s version of this classic. But you would be wrong. Although performed by an amateur group, this is no amateur production.

The clever pre-show, typical of dcp’s Family Theatre productions, may lure you into thinking you will be seeing yet another typical kids show. But once Lucy Pevensie steps through the wardrobe, you will see an exquisite set comparable to those expected of a professional company. Bill and Colleen Algeo are true treasures to dcp Theatre and their sets never disappoint. But to imagine how they achieved this wonder on a community theater budget is nothing short of astounding. Add to that the incredible costuming of Madi Hart Algeo, Deb Takes, and Cathy Zeller. Their costumes embody the creatures of Narnia, as well as perfect recreations of 1940s England. The right costumes can help actors embrace their characters as evidenced by the charming beaver couple (flawlessly played by Maria Serino and Allison Deratzian), the crescendo of evil within the White Witch (expertly personified by Marianne Dell’Aquila) and the larger-than-life Aslan. Darwin Zehr embodies Aslan, being able to project fear, respect, justice, compassion, and every other emotion needed to understand this creator of Narnia.

Although no choreographer is listed in the crew, there had to be some magical creature responsible for so many expert moves - the elegant White Stag (Kadeega Dawod), the graceful Unicorn (Bria McCarthy), the death of Fenris Ulf (Caitlyn Swartz, impressive in every one of her scenes), the remarkable fight scene with more than a dozen actors (most of them children) seamlessly executing a well-developed battle, worthy of any professional troupe. Braden Dell’Aquila, as Peter, is especially skilled in this scene, and his siblings, Lucy (Francesca Foulkes), Susan (Lydia Sensening) and Edmund (Tyler Jay Knowles), do not disappoint. Even the scene changes are smoothly choreographed by a costumed crew.

The trappings of the show - set, costumes, lights, sounds, special effects, props, etc., however great they are, are mere window dressing. They cannot make a show without the proper cast. Kudos to directors Colleen Algeo and Jane Spigel, for finding this talented cast and developing their skills to present this outstanding production. Two notable examples are the many nuances necessary in developing Edmund’s character and the charming interactions between Lucy and Tumnus (Thomas Rush). There is not one actor who does not add to the enjoyment of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe. I would be remiss however if I did not recognize Rosie O’Neill. In a role that could have been easily forgotten, their Dwarf is simple stellar.

Remaining performances are May 4th and May 10th at 1 PM and 4PM, and May 9th at 7:30 PM. Don't miss it!

Photo credits: Colleen Algeo Photography