With just days left to go for the opening night, Narnia is waiting to be unveiled in all its splendour and swathe audiences in magic. The drama society of S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia together with director Vinodh Senadheera & producer Marlon Jesudason are no less excited than they are impatient to stage this timeless tale.

While the cast is scaling up in terms of rehearsing, the production team is sweating it out to make Narnia a treat to the senses. The battle scenes acted out for real, without any discounts (and with real swords, make note!) and ‘illusionism’ a fresh technique for local theatre-goers and some magical, yet plausibly drafted creatures are some things I can safely recommend you look out for at the show.

Continued from last week, the rest of the lead cast speak in an exclusive interview to Daily Mirror Life this week, about why this production and their respective roles are distinct and how they relate to their roles. Here’s an up and close look at the personalities behind the familiar characters from the story.  

 

As Susan

 

Chathura Gunesekera:

This has been a new experience for all actors and will be the same for audiences – we’re stepping out of tradition with illusional effects. This is the second time I’ll be playing a female role, though there’s no getting used to such a thing! The experience is rather new. The character of Susan, second in command, is one that doubts initially but believes soon.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adnan Izath

I started acting only this year and I’ve learned a lot just by watching the guy I’m sharing the role with. A challenge would be that I play a cheetah on alternate days, so it’s important not to get injured lest it’s difficult to return to the role of Susan. I’ve made lots of friends along the way and have been learning so much.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As Lucy

Akil Ismail:

It’s a lot of fun, despite being my very first time on stage. I enjoy the funny parts.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tharaka Jayaratnam:

This will be the first time I’m playing a female role and I find it rather interesting! It is enjoyable becoming Lucy, she’s a lovable person. To be working with a senior cast is a great experience and honour.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As Father Christmas

Lihan Mendis:

This is a role I loved when I watched the movie, and to be casted in as the same was quite an unexpected surprise! I love the aura about the character; he is such a giving person. I’ve been learning from others, especially Ashwin Schafter who I share my role with, so that it is consistent. To maintain the standard is a challenge personally, and I am looking forward to execute the role.   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As Mr Beaver

Sachi Gamage:

First big production I am part of, and it’s been great acting with seniors, it’s easy for the energy and effort to rub off. It’s exciting to be learning and doing something new, not just in my role but overall.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As Mrs Beaver

Sebastian Sansoni:

Like to some others, this is my first time in a female role. To be playing a caring, loveable woman, it’s equally challenging and exciting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By Nivedha Jeyaseelan