THE LION THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE LAUNCH EVENT | THE LOWRY | 26/09/2025

Sarah Monaghan
Oct 1
3 min read

Colorful lion illustration beside text: "THE LION THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE." Dark blue, starry background. Based on C.S. Lewis novel.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Launches at The Lowry Ahead of Festive Run

Christmas at The Lowry is set to be magical as The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe returns to Salford from 3rd December 2025 – 11th January 2026. We were lucky enough to step through the wardrobe early at the show’s official launch in the Compass Room, where guests were greeted with tea, cakes, scones, and the White Witch’s favourite treat – Turkish delight.

Colorful "Lion, Witch, and the Wardrobe" display with promotional items. Afternoon tea set includes scones, jam, and pastries on a tiered stand.

Costumes from the production were displayed, giving a tantalising glimpse into the snowy world of Narnia. From Mr. Tumnus’ faun attire to the Beavers’ practical outfits and the White Witch’s glorious fur coat, each piece spoke of the magic to come.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - Three mannequins display eclectic outfits with scarves. Background features a bright indoor setting with windows and chairs outside.

The Story of Narnia

Based on C.S. Lewis’ beloved novel, the play tells the story of siblings Lucy, Edmund, Susan, and Peter as they stumble through an old wardrobe into a magical land frozen in an endless winter. Ruled by the fearsome White Witch, Narnia seems lost to despair – until the great lion Aslan returns to bring hope, courage, and the promise of spring.

It’s a tale of bravery, family, and the triumph of good over evil, filled with unforgettable characters and moments of pure wonder.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - Lavish fur coat on mannequin beside a sketch of a character from "The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe." Bright room with wooden floor.

A Theatrical Spectacle

This new staging, directed by Michael Fentiman, combines puppetry, live music, and ensemble storytelling to create a theatrical experience unlike any other. Snowy landscapes unfold before the audience, magical transitions transport us from a wardrobe to a wintry forest, and puppeteers breathe life into the majestic Aslan in a way that captivates both children and adults.

Fentiman described the show’s enduring power:

“The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is now in its 75th year, and what’s extraordinary is how many generations have a personal connection to it. Our aim has always been to create a faithful rendition that honours the book, while capturing the wonder and intimacy that people remember from childhood.”

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - Two people sit on chairs, holding microphones. The woman wears a colorful dress; the man wears a cap. Screen shows "WED 3 DEC." Neutral setting.

The Magic of Puppetry

One of the most striking features of the production is its puppetry. Rhodri Watkins, one of the performers bringing Aslan to life, shared what it feels like:

“You focus so much on the lion, and then you feel the audience’s energy – that silence and focus is an incredible experience.”

Far from hiding the puppeteers, the production celebrates their presence, creating a unique connection between cast, puppet, and audience.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - Man in coat adjusts fluffy cat on woman in colorful dress. She's seated, smiling. Indoor setting with light background. Relaxed mood.

During the final performance at the launch, guests were treated to an extra surprise – Aslan himself walked among the tables, allowing everyone to see the breathtaking puppet up close. It was a magical moment that left the whole room in awe and gave a taste of the wonder audiences can expect in the full production.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - A person operates a large, decorated lion puppet in a room with seated onlookers. The audience watches attentively, some taking photos.

Meet the Cast

The launch also introduced us to members of the cast, including Katy Stevens, who takes on the iconic role of the White Witch.

“It’s a real honour to play her. It’s quite exciting to be absolutely despised by about a thousand schoolchildren – though I do have some secret fans!”

Meanwhile, Bunmi Osadolor is making his professional stage debut as Edmund:

“It’s a mad feeling – crazy, but amazing. I’m so excited.”

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - Two people seated on stage, one holding a microphone. Colorful event text and graphics on screen behind them. Relaxed setting.

Music, Atmosphere, and Festive Spirit

Live music is at the heart of the show, performed by the talented cast. From haunting ballads to rousing ensemble numbers, the score deepens the atmosphere of magic and danger. At the launch event, we enjoyed a taste of this with songs including We’ll Meet Again and Myra the Gift Giver, which brought festive warmth to the afternoon.

Even Father Christmas made an appearance, reminding everyone that while Narnia may be cold, the story is brimming with hope and joy.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - Man in a red, fringed costume with a tall hat poses on stage. Background shows "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe" poster. Holiday decor.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - Performers with instruments sing on stage under fairy lights. A vibrant backdrop shows a lion with text: "Step into Narnia this Christmas."

Step Through the Wardrobe This Christmas

The launch event offered a dazzling preview of what promises to be a spellbinding festive production. From the chance to meet Aslan up close to hearing live performances and seeing costumes in detail, the afternoon captured the magic and heart of this beloved story.

With its stunning design, moving performances, breathtaking puppetry, and timeless tale, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is set to be the highlight of Christmas at The Lowry.

📅 Dates: 3rd December 2025 – 11th January 2026

📍 Venue: The Lowry, Salford

🎟 Tickets & Info: thelowry.com

👶 Age Guide: 6+

✨ Step through the wardrobe this Christmas – Narnia awaits.