Theatre Group trip to see Shadowlands at the Aldwych Theatre

Shadowlands is essentially a bitter/sweet love story covering the period in the life of C, S. Lewis when he met, married and faced the grief of the tragically early death of American poet and novelist Joy Davidman. Who could possibly follow the performance of Anthony Hopkins in this role? Hugh Bonneville of course! He is mesmerising as the Oxford don and author of the Narnia Chronicles while Maggie Siff is excellent as the feisty straight talking Joy. 

We, the audience, observe their relationship develop from being one of written correspondence, through great friendship and eventually to deep love in spite of a 17 year age gap. When Joy is diagnosed with terminal cancer ‘Jack’ (C. S. Lewis’s nickname) is devastated and Hugh Bonneville gives a very moving portrayal as a grieving man struggling to equate this with his Christian faith. Nevertheless, the play isn’t all doom and gloom and there are one or two lighter moments to give us a laugh. 

All in all an afternoon of absolute pleasure for 28 theatre group members

Contributed by Pat Ward