Video: IAHS Players Prepare To Bring Children’s Classic To Stage

[bitsontherun gXEeUOVX]FULTON, MISS. (WCBI) – Since September, nearly 100 people, ranging in age from 8 to 80 something have been making costumes, preparing sets and rehearsing.

Instead of tackling a musical, IAHS Indian Players director Victoria Blake decided to bring C.S. Lewis’ “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” to the stage.

So the old Fulton Grammar School has become sort of a home away from home for those involved.

Most of those involved in this production have either seen the movie, “The Chronicles of Narnia,” or read the book, which tells the story of three siblings who enter the magical world of Narnia, through their uncle;s wardrobe. The story is a Christian allegory that is full of adventure. Cast and crew say they’re excited to be involved in a dynamic story that depicts the struggle between good and evil.

“It’s spectacular, the special effects are amazing the actors , really care about what they are doing here,” said Cole Holland, who plays “Peter.”

“Edmund is such a dynamic character because he starts out as the mean one of the group, and during the play he starts to learn why he’s being so mean and basically the witch , makes him betray everyone, once he realizes his mistake, he becomes a good person,” said Adam Whitten, who plays the role of “Edmund.”

“I’m a backstabber, I hurt people, I try to kidnap Lucy,” said Joseph Douglas, who plays “Mr. Tumnus.”

There are different obstacles for each actor and actress.

“Going back to my normal voice cause I get stuck, it’s hard to come back to my normal voice, I just get stuck,” said Madison Everhart, who plays “Susan.”

“Definitely speaking in a British accent, it’s awful, I just can’t do it, but I try my best,” Holland said. 

“Making me look like the White Witch is definitely a challenge,” said Valerie Blake, who plays the “White Witch.”

It is truly a team effort for all involved.

“Toughest part is the responsibility, if something happens to the props, or anything like that, we get the blame, not anyone else,” said Paden Bell, co stage manager. 

Indeed it takes a lot of work to put something like this on, Itawamba Players will continue last minute dress rehearsals until opening night, on Thursday . The Lion the Witch and the Wardrobe runs through Saturday night.

For ticket information,  call IAHS at 662 862 3104.