Shadowlands Review: compelling, though measured scenes of C. S. Lewis' life
- Emma Knott
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
13 February 2026 I 19:00 I Aldwych Theatre, London
⭐⭐⭐ I PR - Invite
Shadowlands is a quietly moving stage production currently playing in London's West End. Written by William Nicholson and based on his BAFTA-winning television film, the play tells the true story of author C. S. Lewis and his life-changing relationship with American poet Joy Davidman, in an exploration of the fragile beauties of life. Originally staged at Chichester Festival Theatre, this revival stars Hugh Bonneville as Lewis alongside Maggie Siff as Davidman, directed by Rachel Kavanaugh.
I'd been especially excited to see this production for several reasons: my long-standing love of Lewis' work, particularly The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, a childhood favourite. But also in my admiration for Bonneville's performance in Downton Abbey and Paddington. He remains a standout tonight, carrying both the emotional and intellectual weight of portraying not only a character, but a real person's experience of navigating profound change.
He begins the story convinced that love is behind him, resigned to a quiet bachelor's life in Oxford with his brother Warnie, who is brought to life with kindness and humour by Jeff Rawle (of Harry Potter fame). Lewis believes this life is destiny, his conversion to Christianity having imposed strict rules on marriage that ceased previous relationships. We see fascinating religious parables through his writing, with The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe regarded as a Christian allegory of Jesus, Satan and Heaven.
Everything shifts for Lewis when he agrees to meet American fan and admirer Joy Davidman, with whom he has exchanged letters for years. Maggie Siff delivers a strong and thoughtful performance, though her chemistry with Bonneville is simply warm rather than truly passionate, despite the narrative intention to show a gradually blossoming relationship that forms a deep bond. Although both actors are individually excellent, I find myself struggling to root for them as a pair, making it harder to form an emotional attachment and feel the full impact of Act Two events.
The pacing of Nicholson's book can oftentimes be slow. While the production aims for a gentle tone, to sensitively explore the hardships of characters, from Lewis' spiritual struggles to Davidman's declining health, its measured rhythm makes it difficult to stay engaged. There are moments that deliver genuine emotional impact, notably how Davidman's health emotionally distresses both Lewis and her young son. Despite darker themes, the production is able to balance this with surprising humour, providing comic relief from weighted scenes.
Peter McKintosh's stage design is beautiful, framed by towering bookshelves that immerse the audience in Lewis' scholarly world to reinforce his writer's identity. These books also reflect Joy's admiration for his work, and her own intellectual and poetic background. Literature as the heart of their connection, even when we venture away from their home. Howard Harrison's lighting design is equally striking, adding atmosphere and a visual elegance that return to the allegory of spiritual meaning beyond the physical world.
In spite of its moderate pacing, Shadowlands is a recommendable watch due to its thought-provoking portrayal of love, loss and resilience. Bonneville and Siff give compelling performances, and their chemistry, if understated, allows for moments of honest affection and trust. Most successful in the visual symbolism of C. S. Lewis' world, this character-driven drama gives audiences a glimpse into one of literature's most celebrated figures.
Running at London's Aldwych Theatre until the 9th May 2026, in a strictly-limited season.
