CS Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is coming to the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury

It’s been 75 years since author CS Lewis invited readers into the magical world of Narnia in his epic novel, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

Now, three quarters of a century later, this fantastical story has been adapted into a jaw-dropping stage show that is touring the country, including five nights in Canterbury.

The show comes straight from a successful run on London’s West End and is now visiting theatres all over the UK, with Olivier Award winner Katy Stephens playing the White Witch.

Katy, who has taken on leading roles at Shakespeare’s Globe and the Royal Shakespeare Company, will be showing off her villainous side as she becomes the evil ruler of the snowy land.

“The role of Her Imperial Majesty Jadis, Queen of Narnia, in this thrilling stage version of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is something I can’t wait to play,” says Katy. “The thought of casting a spell over Narnia to make it always winter but never Christmas is simply tantalising. Let the magic begin!”

The story follows the Pevensie children – Lucy, Edmund, Susan and Peter – who step through a wardrobe in the spare room of Professor Digory Kirke’s countryside home while being evacuated from London during the Blitz.

The children are transported to Narnia, an enchanted kingdom filled with mythical creatures, talking animals and the wicked witch.

The book, which was written by British author CS Lewis and first published in 1950, has become one of the best-selling books of all time, with more than 85 million copies sold all over the world.

Producer Chris Harper said: “We can’t wait for children and adults alike to join us on this spectacular new journey through the wardrobe, and are proud to be marking the 75th anniversary of the publication of CS Lewis’ novel with this tour.”

“The production celebrates the magic of live theatre and is led by a multi-talented cast of actors, singers, musicians, dancers and puppeteers,” adds director Michael Fentiman. “It is a celebration of the possibilities of the collective imagination and the boundless wonders of individual skill.”

The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe will be at the Marlowe Theatre in Canterbury from Tuesday, July 15 to Saturday, July 19. You can book tickets here.

You can also book tickets by calling 01227 787787.