″‘Why, Sir,’ said Lucy. ‘I think – I don’t know – but I think I could be brave enough.‘”
On Thursday, June 12th, Lower School students boarded a bus to travel together with their homeroom teachers to the Shaw Festival in Niagara-on-the-Lake to see the stage adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ famous children’s story The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Our trip was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the end of the year with a culminating activity which enhanced our cultural literacy program.
“Narnia returns! Step through the wardrobe and enter a magical world. Guided by the noble lion Aslan, four children – Peter, Susan, Edmund and Lucy – embark on a quest to free this enchanted land from the White Witch’s icy grip and restore peace to the kingdom. Filled with breathtaking battles, mythical creatures and unforgettable characters, this new adaptation of C.S. Lewis’ classic will delight the whole family. It’s a story about imagination, loyalty and what it takes to be a real hero.”
Our theatrical experience was incredible and we have so many memories! The characters spoke with the audience at times, and walked in the aisles where we sat. It was fun, cool, and interactive! At intermission we had lunch outdoors in the courtyard. The weather was gorgeous! With respect to the background and set, the way the stage transitioned from the wardrobe into Narnia was amazing to see.
Lighting magnified emotions effectively, especially during Aslan’s death and resurrection. The animal costumes were a unique combination of puppet and costume. The giant was depicted as two immense boots which the actor lifted when the giant played his role. Everyone loved the White Witch; she was scary but also funny, and some of us got to touch her hand when she walked up the aisle!
After the play we went to the stage door outside and met many of the actors when they walked out. We got pictures with them!
To get into the spirit of Activity Day, we actually began celebrations a day early this year! Wednesday, June 11th was our House Shirt Jeans Day and we had a Labora et Lude Trivia Challenge at 2:15 p.m. until dismissal. Thank you to The Kitchenstead for donating a special sweet treat – yummy ice cream!! – for our students and faculty!
Special thanks to Grade 4 English teacher Miss Kim for bringing this classic C. S. Lewis story to life at Hawthorn. By opening our students’ hearts and minds to the adventures of Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy in class this year, our trip to the Shaw was even more meaningful and fun!