Performing arts students from the college presented ‘Narnia’, a Christmas production for members of the public.

The student-created production was based on C.S. Lewis's 'The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe' following the story of the Pevensie children who are evacuated in WWII, their journey into the land of Narnia, through a wardrobe, and the adventures that follow.

The Show was performed over two nights to full houses of friends and family and members of the public.  Several members of the audience stated that this was the best show that the college has presented.

Forty-seven students from the UAL Performing and Productions Arts course made-up the cast with all students being able to put forward proposals at the end of the summer term, and out of four entries, Fraya Syrad, Taylor Dinnis and Chloe Philipot’s presentation on ‘Narnia’ was deemed the most successful.  The students started work on devising, finding music and choreographing as soon as they returned to college in September. Students on all levels and pathways are given the opportunity to audition for the role of their choice and the cast are chosen by a secret ballot.

Fraya Syrad who played the role of Lucy, said; “I really enjoyed portraying the innocent, little Lucy there was a lot of team-work, all the dancers and singers were outstanding, and the audience were engaged throughout.” 

The set and lighting were designed and created by Matthew Moore, a Teaching Support Officer at the college.  Matthew designed, a larger than life animatronic lion, Aslan, which was operated by two students during the performance to bring him to life.

CWA Performing Arts Lecturer, Annette Connolly, said: “All the students worked exceptionally hard to achieve a high-level performance supporting each other in all aspects of their work.  We are very lucky to have excellent facilities, large, bespoke dance studios, a working traditional theatre and the support of Matthew Moore.”