FROM The Greeneville Neighbor News
ABINGDON, Va. -- The Barter Players, Barter Theatre’s company dedicated to young audiences, is preparing to take you through the wardrobe and into the magical land of Narnia, through August 11 at Barter Stage II.
The C.S. Lewis’ novel “The Lion, the Witch and theWardrobe” chronicles the adventures of the four Penvensie children. In the wondrous land of Narnia, they face a dangerous White Witch and her evil spells. It will take all of the children’s bravery and the love of a lion named Aslan to help them save themselves and the home of their new friends.
Lewis penned the story in 1950 and it continues to intrigue children and adults. Time magazine included the book in its TIME’s 100 best English-language novels from 1923 to 2005.
“’The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe’ has always been one of my favorites,” said Katy Brown, artistic director of The Barter Players and director of this production. “As a child I was mesmerized by the thought that you could go through an ordinary piece of furniture and end up somewhere so magical, important and exciting.”
For this production, Brown and The Barter Players are focusing on the movement with masks, dance and music.
“I wanted to heighten the magic of the story and music and movement are such wonderful ways to do that onstage. D'Vaughn Agu, our set designer, has created a fabric and ice world for us that comes pouring out of the wardrobe at the beginning of the play. Kelly Jenkins' costumes are nothing short of beautiful. It's going to be a feast for the eyes that also calls on the imagination,” said Brown.
Every summer, The Barter Players add to the fun with a coloring contest. A free copy of the coloring sheet entry form and guidelines can be found at BarterTheatre.com under the show page for "The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe" or can be picked up at Barter's Box Office.
A winner will be chosen in three categories, and winners and a guest will receive a free ticket to the final performance. The children will be called on stage to be honored and presented with a special price.
Find out more about the coloring contest, view behind the scenes photos, post about your favorite plays, check in and more at The Barter Players Facebook page.
Tickets for The Barter Players’ “The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe” are $11 and performances are at 10am on most days.. Please check the online calendar at BarterTheatre.com for detailed information or call the Box Office at 276.628.3991.
