Through the Wardrobe
Northern Ireland and England Tour – May 2026
The Wheaton College Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Klemme, is honored to celebrate its 100th anniversary with an international tour: Through the Wardrobe. This milestone journey commemorates a century of musical excellence and faith-filled artistry, while also marking the 75th anniversary of C. S. Lewis’s beloved classic, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
Drawing inspiration from Lewis’s life and legacy, the orchestra will trace the journey of C.S. Lewis's wardrobe from Northern Ireland and England to its final resting place at Wheaton College weaving together history, literature, and music with the faith that unites them all.
Performance Highlights
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Wednesday, May 13 – Belfast, Northern Ireland
The centennial tour begins with a Through the Wardrobe concert in one of Belfast’s signature concert halls. -
Sunday, May 17 – Oxford, England
WCSO performs in an iconic and historic Oxford venue, bringing music to the heart of Lewis’s academic home. -
Tuesday, May 19 – London, England
The journey culminates with an evening of music and worship in a historic London church.
Alongside these concerts, the orchestra will share music through school visits, church services, and community engagements arranged by Wheaton College.
Journey at a Glance
Monday, May 11 – Depart Chicago
Tuesday, May 12 – Arrive Dublin → Belfast (C. S. Lewis Birthplace & Square)
Wednesday, May 13 – Belfast concert performance
Thursday, May 14 – Cultural experiences in Belfast
Friday, May 15 – Causeway Coast: Dunluce Castle, Giant’s Causeway, Portstewart Strand
Saturday, May 16 – Flight to London, transfer to Oxford
Sunday, May 17 – Oxford concert performance
Monday, May 18 – University of Oxford cultural programming
Tuesday, May 19 – London landmarks & final concert performance
Wednesday, May 20 – Return to Chicago