This summer, London’s Sadler’s Wells will once again open the enchanted doors to Narnia, as The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe returns to the capital for a limited season from 20 August to 7 September 2025. Marking the 75th anniversary of C.S. Lewis’ beloved novel, this much-lauded stage adaptation invites audiences of all ages to journey through the wardrobe and into a world of timeless magic, courage, and wonder.
Following a triumphant UK and Ireland tour, the production’s return to London is a moment of celebration for theatre lovers and fantasy aficionados alike. Under the visionary direction of Michael Fentiman, the piece is a shimmering tapestry of drama, movement, puppetry, and music—transforming the stage into a frozen kingdom where fawns dance, beavers talk, and an eternal winter awaits its thaw.
At the heart of the story are the Pevensie siblings, portrayed by a dynamic young cast: Joanna Adaran as Susan, Jesse Dunbar as Peter, Kudzai Mangombe as Lucy, and Bunmi Osadolor as Edmund. They are joined by the commanding Stanton Wright as the noble lion Aslan, and award-winning stage veteran Katy Stephens in the chilling dual role of The White Witch and Mrs Macready. Stephens, an Olivier Award-winning ensemble member from the Royal Shakespeare Company’s Histories Cycle, brings a formidable gravitas to the role that promises to leave audiences enthralled.
This production is no ordinary children’s tale. It’s a feast for the senses: with original music by Barnaby Race and Benji Bower, evocative set and costume design by Tom Paris, and spellbinding illusions by Chris Fisher, the show marries theatrical innovation with the enduring charm of classic storytelling. The original puppetry, helmed by Toby Olié and Max Humphries, adds an additional layer of artistry—bringing creatures of myth and memory to life with uncanny elegance.
As part of the Society of London Theatre’s celebrated Kids Week initiative, over 6,000 tickets will be available at half price, making it a must-see event for families this August. For selected performances, a child aged 17 and under goes free with a full-paying adult, with up to two additional children able to attend at half price—a golden opportunity to introduce younger generations to the transformative power of live theatre.
Originally brought to life at the Leeds Playhouse before a successful West End run at the Gillian Lynne Theatre in 2022/23, this staging of The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe has earned widespread acclaim for its visual splendour and emotional depth. It is produced by Chris Harper Productions and Catherine Schreiber, and supported by an outstanding creative team whose pedigree spans the West End, the RSC, and beyond.
“It’s a celebration of the possibilities of the collective imagination,” says Fentiman. “Our beautiful production is led by a multi-talented cast of actors, singers, musicians, dancers and puppeteers—all breathing new life into this timeless tale.”
For those seeking a dash of magic in the heart of London this summer, this limited engagement offers the perfect escape. Whether you are revisiting Narnia or stepping through the wardrobe for the very first time, this is a theatrical adventure not to be missed.
The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe plays at Sadler’s Wells from 20 August to 7 September 2025. Tickets and further information are available at www.lionwitchonstage.com
