If the witch knew the true meaning of sacrifice, she might have interpreted the Deep Magic differently. It says that when a willing victim who has committed no treachery is killed in the place of a traitor, the table will crack, and Death itself will start working backward." --Aslan, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe
Encore! Theatre Arts resurrects the beloved children's fantasy play, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, this weekend at Tulsa Little Theatre. This tale of adventure follows four children through a wardrobe into the land of Narnia, where they learn of their destiny with the guidance of a mystical lion named Aslan.
Encore! Theatre Arts is a 501(c)(3) non-profit theatre company that was founded in 2009 and incorporated in February 2010 by husband-wife team, Joshua and Mindy Barker. Joshua Barker explains why this fantasy children's tale takes center stage every year, "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is an annual tradition of ours. This is my eighth time to produce this play, and it has become a very special show. It is a classic and never gets old for both us and our audiences. We have many families that continue to see the show year after year. We're especially excited this year, because the production is bigger and better than it ever has been."
"It is a magical show for all ages -- there are mythical creatures, it snows on stage and over the audience, and there are two epic battle scenes," Mindy Barker said.
The overall themes of the production are what drive the Barkers to stage this play every year.
"My favorite theme of the show is the power of love and forgiveness. When Edmund nearly compromises the fulfillment of the prophecy for his own selfish desire, he is rescued by strangers and brought to Aslan's camp. He is met with love and forgiveness before he even has a chance to explain. He proceeds to do what it takes to make things right, risking his life in the battle to save the lives of others," Mindy said.
  Magic Abounds. |
"All have done wrong, Edmund, at one time or another. But to acknowledge your error and try to do better is the best way to right that wrong." --Aslan, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe
Joshua Barker also favors the themes of faith and forgiveness, and also mentions sacrifice as he explains his favorite ideals of the production, "...Even though their world is ruled by evil, all the creatures in Narnia are thankful for what they do have. They don't take anything for granted -- their shelter, food, friendships, family -- and they have faith that their true king, Aslan, will return. One of my favorite scenes in the production is the Stone Table, where Aslan willingly offers his life to the White Witch in place of Edmund's. It sends a powerful message about unconditional love and making sacrifices for someone, no matter how undeserving they are."
The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe will be presented at Tulsa Little Theatre, located at 1511 S. Delaware Ave. Performances are Friday, Nov. 11 at 7:30pm, Saturday, Nov. 12 at 2pm and 7:30pm, and Sunday, Nov. 13 at 2pm and 7:30pm. General Admission tickets are $16 for Adults, $13 for Student and Seniors, and $11 for Children and Groups of 10 or more. Boy and Girl Scouts in uniform may purchase tickets for $8.00 on opening night. More ticket information can be obtained by visiting encoretulsa.com or calling 918-933-4203.
Unapologetically Eclectic
Tulsa Camerata takes over the Westby Pavilion on Wednesday, Nov. 9 for Tulsa Performing Arts Center Trust's free Brown Bag it Series, at 12:10pm -- perfect for escaping the madness of the office. Tulsa Camerata is a chamber music repertory company founded in 2010 to present "high-quality chamber music concerts that utilize the wealth of local talent in our area, with an unapologetically eclectic and unique voice." A piano quintet from the group will perform. More information on this unique group of chamber music enthusiasts can be found at tulsacamerata.org.
Music for Scallywags
Ron Spigelman conducts the seductive musical score of Klaus Badelt and Hans Zimmer for the Tulsa Symphony as they perform during a screening of the PG-13 film, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl at the Chapman Music Hall, one night only, Nov. 12 at 7:30pm. Tulsa Oratorio Chorus also performs to underscore the epic tale of Captain Jack Sparrow, played by Johnny Depp. Tickets, which range from $15 to $65 are available online at myticketoffice.com, or by calling 918-596-7111.
More Musical Dreams
Nov. 13 at 3pm and 4:15pm, the Tulsa Youth Symphony (TYSO) will give two free concerts at the John H. Williams Theatre of the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.
As one of the three longest continuously operating arts organizations in the city, the Tulsa Youth Symphony is celebrating its 45th season, by providing unique training and performance opportunities to talented young musicians. More than 140 musicians participate in the program's two full symphony orchestras. Participants must remain active in their own school's music program. TYSO gives three full orchestra concerts each season. More information can be found at tyso.org.
Mixed Media Gypsy
On Nov. 15 The Gypsy Coffee House, located at 303 N. Cincinnati Ave., will host Tulsa's longest running "Open Mic Night." Sign up begins at 6:30pm and the session begins at 7pm every Tuesday night. All material must be original to the performer, which includes lyrics, music, poetry and comedy. Strictly: o covers of any kind.
While you lounge with your latte, roam the coffeehouse and explore the mixed media collection of art on display by Joe Owen. Check out gypsycoffee.com for hours and photos.
Send all comments and feedback regarding Arts Experienced to jratliff@urbantulsa.com.