A married couple in real life, Kaitlin Williams and Mack Gordon star in the upcoming production of CS Lewiss The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, which runs at from Dec. 5 to 15 before traveling to The Evergreen Cultural Centre (Dec 18-22), Presentation House Theatre (April 21-27, 2013), and The Kay Meek Centre (April 28-May 4, 2013). We asked them what they love about this classic tale.
First, I love CS Lewis and the Narnia stories. I have fond childhood memories of reading them with my brother and sister, and then watching the BBC adaptations on VHS until we knew them by heart. Ive always loved Lucy for her ability to believe with such an open heart and for her tremendous courage. This adaptation is especially exciting as I not only get to play Lucy, but also a number of others including vastly different characters such as the White Witch and Father Christmas.
Kaitlin: The grace that Edmund is shown after he betrays his family is beautiful and the love Aslan portrays for all the children, and for Narnia, is humbling. I think our world could always use more love and grace.
Mack: The message is one of mercy. Mercy is probably one of the most timeless messages there is. You have the ability to see someone harmed and you have compassion for them. Its the attitude of benevolence that man has always strived for.
Kaitlin: It is an epic tale with journeys, magic, battles, evil witches and good lions. It is also a tale of believing in the impossible, of faith and love what more could you want?
Mack: I think the purpose of theatre, of storytelling even, is compassion. Watching stories of people in situations unlike our own helps us understand life outside ourselves. This is a big part of religion and its a big part of why were so compelled by stories. LWW appeals to people of faith because its an allegory on the sacrifice of Christ. Despite the stigma against the dogma and institution of religion, Christs sacrifice is a story that all of us can relate to on some level. Its the story of mercy and compassion. Its got action, excitement, and compassion, things any viewer can appreciate.
Kaitlin: We feel very fortunate to have been given this opportunity to work so closely for the next month and a half. We truly are best friends and what could be better than getting paid to go to work with your best friend all day? Its such a fun play and we both know we are going to have an amazing time working on it.
Mack: Its challenging sometimes. Its terrific fun sometimes. Its rewarding always to participate with someone you love in polishing and nurturing an artform youve devoted a large part of your life to. Its easy to be a team on stage because we are, truly, working for each other, professionally, artistically, and personally. I want to see Kaitlin succeed as much as I want to succeed myself. Its amazing to start a process in a room so filled with trust from and for your fellow actor.
Kaitlin: It is told with only two actors, which is a real treat to witness. I think audiences will love the inventiveness and imaginative parts of the show, and theyll have a lot fun watching Mack play both Mr. and Mrs. Beaver!
Mack: The opportunity to perform a flagship title for one of my favourite theatres. I get to speak the lines that so many great 麻豆传媒映画actors have spoken before me.
