Village Theatre's Presentation Of `Narnia' Meets The Challenge

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"Narnia," by Jules Tasca, Ted Drachman and Thomas Tierney. Directed by Steve Tomkins; Village Theatre, 120 Front St. N., Issaquah. Tuesdays-Sundays through Jan. 2 (392-2202).

Village Theatre's new musical, "Narnia," is based on C.S. Lewis' "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe," one of the most beloved entries in the annals of children's literature. Therefore, "Narnia" has a lot to live up to - and for the most part, this energetic production meets the challenge.

The Pevensie siblings flee World War II London for the safety of their uncle's country mansion. While playing in an old wardrobe, they are magically transported to Narnia, a fantasy land where animals talk and trees have eyes. The bewildered children are swept up in a battle between the leonine Aslan, Narnia's rightful leader, and his usurper, the White Witch.

The refrain of good vs. evil that runs through "Narnia" is steeped in Christian undertones. Images of temptation, submission, sacrifice and rebirth abound. What seemed empowering as a child feels a trifle cloying as an adult: at times, Aslan's preachiness and his followers' rapt adoration tread dangerously close to the saccharine. "Narnia" is at its best at its more robust moments.

As the White Witch, Julie Thornton careens between cackling and seductive, making being bad look like fun. Terence Kelley's rich, mellow voice is perfect for the beatific Aslan. But though his vocals soar when leading the ensemble in song, he sounds strained during slower numbers. Marina Benedict and Taran Collis as Susan and Lucy sing some beautiful duets, and Chad Kimball (Peter) makes a likable, protective older brother. Bret Hamby adds a welcome touch of impudence to the mix as Edmund, the boy ensnared by the White Witch's candy and false promises.

Visually, "Narnia" is quite a spectacle. Glynn Bartlett's multi-leveled, abstract forest feels cold and threatening. Paul Chi-Ming Louey's costumes and masks are lavishly imaginative. Aslan, bathed in golden light, is resplendent in a mane of gold leaves, a cuirass and a flowing red cape, and the Witch's snowy satin robes belie her dark nature.