Gallery 7 Theatre in Abbotsford presents CS Lewis' Prince Caspian, as adapted by Canadian playwright Damien Atkins, starting on Friday, Nov. 8.
The production runs until Nov. 17 at the Abbotsford Arts Centre (2329 Crescent Way) and features live original music composed by Liam Whatley.
Ken Hildebrandt, managing artistic director of Gallery 7, said he believes the production is the first to be presented following the premiere of the play at the Shaw Festival in 2023.
"We're always on the lookout for the latest and greatest shows to bring to the community that not only fit our mandate, but also provide audiences with an exciting, fresh and engaging theatre experience. Prince Caspian certainly fits the bill," he said.
The play starts with the Pevensie children travelling by train when they are suddenly and magically transported back to the fantastical world of Narnia.
More than 1,000 years have passed since their last visit, and war once again consumes the land.
The children join forces with Prince Caspian to defeat the evil King Miraz to restore peace and freedom to the kingdom. A story of courage, hope and strength of character emerges in this highly theatrical stage adaption of C.S. Lewis' beloved novel.
Directing Prince Caspian is Gabe Kirkley, who directed last November's world premiere of A Tale of Two Cities for Gallery 7 Theatre.
Kirkley obtained a bachelor's degree in history and theatre from University of the Fraser Valley.
"Prince Caspian is a story of courage, belief and return – a return to Narnia for the Pevensies, but also a return to faith," Kirkley said.
"The play asks us to consider how we react when our beliefs are challenged, when the path forward is unclear, and we must place our trust in things that are unseen, yet known to be true. It's been a privilege to bring this script to life with a fantastic group of actors, crew and designers."
Film and theatre actor Isaac Stuber Li plays the title role of Prince Caspian while Cameron McKerchar plays Peter, Dalton Nelson plays Edmund, Camilia Rodriguez plays Lucy and Naomi Stewart plays Susan.
Rounding out the cast, some of whom will be playing multiple characters, are Nicholas Elia, Cath de la Rambelje, Teagan Gibson, Meghan Kellington, Ruthie MacKenzie, Liam Whatley and Keegan Zaporozan.
Prince Caspian runs November 8 and 9 and 12-16 at 7:30 p.m. with matinees on Nov. 9, 16 and 17 at 2 p.m.
Tickets are available at gallery7theatre.com or by calling 604-504-5940.
