Carson-Newman Theatre to perform “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”

^{Carson-Newman University presents the theatre production of “The Lion, the Witch and Wardrobe.” Pictured left to right are: Edmund (Kyle Summers), Lucy (Nancy Thompson), Peter (Jay Echols) and Susan (Maranda Vandergriff).}

(Nov. 6, 2015) – Carson-Newman University Theatre will present C.S. Lewis’ thrilling story “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” opening Thursday, November 12.

The production, directed by Associate Professor of Theatre Kyle Biery and dramatized for the stage by Carson-Newman alumnus Joseph Robinette, opens Thursday, November 12, in Gentry Auditorium located in Henderson Humanities Building on campus.

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is incredibly compelling for all ages and that is part of the appeal,” said Biery. “As a child we can enjoy the story of a powerful lion and his woodland followers fighting and defeating the evil queen as a wonderfully fantastic tale. But as most know, at the heart of C.S. Lewis’s Narnia series is an exploration of Christianity and with “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe,” the Gospel in particular.”

The performance of C.S. Lewis’ classic, set in the land of Narnia, faithfully recreates the magic and mystery of Aslan, played by Jacob Lindsey, the great lion, his struggle with the White Witch, played by Bria Hacker, and the adventures of four children, who inadvertently wander from an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten Narnia. The intense action features chases, duels and escapes as the witch is determined to keep Narnia in her possession and to end the reign of Aslan. The production has cast of thirty-two members.

Robinette, who graduated from Carson-Newman in 1960, is the author of more than 55 noted works including his collaboration with E.B. White on the stage version of “Charlotte’s Web,” and his acclaimed “A Christmas Story, The Musical.”

Performances will be held November 12-14 at 7 p.m. and November 15 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $8 reserved seating, $5 for students and seniors 60+, $3 for children ages 5-12 and FREE for children 4 and under. Approximate running time is 80 minutes. For reservations, call the Carson-Newman Box Office 865-471-4163.