The final play for the semester by Madison College Performing Arts has begun. Last weekend April 5-7 was the start of “The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.”

The second production for Performing Arts for the spring semester is a big one. The cast has 22 members and plenty more in production. It’s also the first time that the fantasy genre has come to Madison College this academic year.

The book “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” was written by British author C.S. Lewis in the 1950s and has become a staple in fantasy readings for children. The idea to use the book as a play at Madison College caome from a desire to have a family-oriented show.

“Looking for a family friendly show to strengthen our outreach efforts. Also wanted to align with a local educational reading, that they are doing in the schools,” said Miranda Hawk Co-Chair of Communication and Performing Arts.

The play will have four different people playing the role of Father Christmas, each bringing their own style. They are: Sam White (on April 7), who has been in Madison area theater for 40 years; Alec Stanley, an alumnus of Madison College and local musician; first timer to the stage Steven Ansorge, the Student Senate President; and Madison College instructor Mike Lussenden.

The play is a departure from what the college has scene in this academic year with productions like “Empty Table” about food security and “Student Body” about sexual assault, plays taking on serious subjects.

In the case of “Alice in Slasherland” it was the first R rated production to hit Mitby Theater.

While not in the same tone as the others, the fourth and final production of the 2018-19 year, the fantasy genre has been a fun production for the students involved.

“The students are really enjoying exploring mystical characters, how often do you get to play a beaver or a witch,” said Hawk of the students getting into the characters.

It’s also different challenge to use a children’s book to try and teach professional theater.

“We really emphasized the physicality of these characters and the vocal qualities and going out of comfort zones and movements,” said Hawk of the production.

The play will be a chance for Madison College faculty, staff, and students to bring their families and relive their own experiences with the book.

The remaining dates are April 12 and 13 at 7 p.m. and April 14 at 3:30 p.m.

There will also be a matinee show April 12 at 9 a.m., it’s a pay what you can show. The other shows are free to students, just show you’re OneCard.