Hugh Bonneville Captivates as C.S. Lewis in Shadowlands Revival
The Aldwych Theatre in London is currently hosting a revival of William Nicholson's 1989 play, Shadowlands, starring Hugh Bonneville as the renowned author C.S. Lewis. This production, running until 9 May 2026, delves into the real-life romance between Lewis and the American poet Joy Davidman, portrayed by Maggie Siff. The play has garnered attention for its charming performances, though it has been critiqued for its somewhat simplistic approach to the complex relationship.
A Tale of Two Lost Souls
Shadowlands traces the poignant connection between Lewis, a devout Christian and scholar in his late fifties living a bachelor life with his brother Major WH Lewis (Jeff Rawle), and Davidman, a fiercely intelligent poet navigating motherhood and a troubled marriage. Their story begins not as a typical romantic meet-cute but as a genuine bond between two individuals seeking solace. Lewis, known affectionately as 'Jack', offers to marry Davidman to help her remain in the country, leading to a chaste arrangement that gradually deepens into love.
The narrative takes a tragic turn when Davidman's leg pains are revealed to be cancer, forcing Lewis to confront his beliefs in a structured, divine universe. This elegantly elegiac play is elevated by the watchable chemistry between Bonneville and Siff, with Bonneville bringing a boyish animation to Lewis's character, balancing spiritual ponderings with a grumpy yet handsome demeanor.
Performances and Production Highlights
Maggie Siff delivers a winning performance as Joy Davidman, capturing her vulnerability and resilience with brittle charisma. Hugh Bonneville, while inherently bringing his signature charm, infuses Lewis with a nuanced depth that resonates with audiences, even if the writing occasionally places him on a 'functionally virginal pedestal'. The production, directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, features Peter McKintosh's set design, centered around handsome bookshelves and subtle Narnia allusions, such as a Victorian-style lamp-post, adding a layer of visual elegance without overwhelming the story.
Despite its strengths, Shadowlands has been noted for lacking a certain depth, particularly in portraying the physical aspects of Lewis and Davidman's relationship. The play leans into a chaste romantic fantasy, which may appeal to fans of Bonneville but leaves some viewers wanting more complexity. Tickets range from £40 to £160, with performances running for 2 hours and 20 minutes, offering a high-class, if somewhat safe, theatrical experience.
Final Verdict
In summary, Shadowlands is a sweet and period-appropriate romance that shines through its lead performances. While it may not quicken the pulse with passionate intensity, it provides a philosophically interesting exploration of love, loss, and faith. For those seeking a gentle, well-acted drama, this revival at the Aldwych Theatre is a worthwhile watch, even if it occasionally skirts the edges of deeper emotional layers.
