This digital version of Wonderland highlights just how it possible to be as creative as possible but still retain the strength story.
Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is a story in which creatives are able to allow their imaginations really run away with them – as this ambitious and fun new digital production from Creation Theatre proves.
Adapted and directed by Zoe Seaton, much of what happens during Alice: A Virtual Theme Park takes place through a series of zoom meetings, through which audiences make their choices and take their own unique journey into Wonderland. It is a lively and playful adaptation that really captures the quirkiness of the original story.
From applauding Tweedledum and Tweedledee’s balancing act (cleverly filmed and performed by Tom Richardson) to taking part in a musical statues competition in the presence of the Queen of Hearts, a lot of thought has clearly gone into ensuring that it is entertaining but still retains the strength of the story.
One particular highlight is The Mad Hatter’s Theatre scene written by Charlotte Keatley which really captures the spirit of the show as a whole – as well as highlighting the creativity that has gone into Ryan Dawson Laight’s set and costume designs, enhancing the family show vibe.
It was a real joy to see how enthralled some of the children were about being able to participate in a show this way and allowing them to really connect with the characters – as the hedgehog game proves.
If there is one minor thing to note is the fact it doesn’t always feel like a smooth transition between entering and leaving the zoom meetings which can take a little bit of the magic out of it – but it does show how ambitious Creation Theatre have been with it which is not a bad thing.
Throughout it all, this show is filled with plenty of surprises and is all the more delightful for it. The tea party and courtroom scenes are really enjoyable and capture the madness of Wonderland really well. Meanwhile, all of the cast really throw themselves into their roles with Vera Chok as the Queen of Hearts, Dharmesh Patel as The Mad Hatter and Tom Richardson as Tweedledum and Tweedledee really delivering brilliant characterisations.
Overall, this is an immensely enjoyable, fun-filled and ambitious take on this classic story that families will find entertaining.
By Emma Clarendon
Alice: A Virtual Theme Park is on until the 30th August. For more information and to book tickets visit: https://www.creationtheatre.co.uk/whats-on/alice/
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐