Alice in Wonderland pantomime hits the stage in Hillsburgh
HILLSBURGH – Pantomimes are a tradition at Century Church Theatre in Hillsburgh. Every November and December a classic fairy tale, or well-known children’s story, comes to life with a bit of a twist, much to the enjoyment of audiences, say officials.
“Pantomimes are a unique experience, usually combining adult and youth casts, they are a mini musical of sorts, with comedy, songs, and an opportunity for audience participation. The fourth wall is often broken, with characters on stage speaking directly to the audience, encouraging them to cheer the goodies, boo the baddies, and hopefully tell them if someone is lurking in the shadows,” reads a press release.
This year Alice in Wonderland hits the stage this month, The beloved tale of a young girl’s adventure down a rabbit hole is turned on its head as Alice arrives in Wonderland at a very precarious time. Wonderland is about to be plunged into darkness, and into the clutches of the Wrong Red Queen, as the Great Clock slowly winds down.
Can Alice find the key to wind it up and save Wonderland? Familiar characters like the White Rabbit, Mad Hatter and Cheshire Cat help Alice on her quest, while the Wrong Red Queen and her band of Wrong Rabbits do their best to foil her plans.
Audiences will love seeing their favourite characters, and some new ones, journey through Wonderland’s famous scenes, including the Queen’s Kitchen, the Jabberwocky’s cave, and the Looking-Glass, where things are very contrariwise, say officials.
Directed by Angie Sapalovski and Amanda Philip the play featured a cast of 30, being made up of experienced theatre performers and newcomers.
Many of this year’s Ensemble, and a few members of the Principal Cast, are new to community theatre.
This version of Alice in Wonderland, written by pantomime playwright Ben Crocker, gave the co-directors an opportunity to use some of their younger cast in Principal roles, allowing returning Ensemble members the chance to grow as performers. Fan favourites of Century Church Theatre audiences round out the cast, so there are plenty of familiar faces on stage.
A talented behind the scenes team has been hard at work creating colourful Wonderland costumes, building, painting and creating set pieces and props, and designing stage lighting and sound effects.
Volunteers are the backbone of community theatre, and Century Church Theatre is fortunate to have so many who are willing to give their time “off stage” in support of a successful production.
Alice in Wonderland, the pantomime, is on stage at Century Church Theatre from Nov. 22 to Dec. 7, with 2pm matinees on Saturdays and Sundays and one evening performance at 7:30pm on Dec. 5.
Tickets are $15, available online at centurychurchtheatre.com. Seating is General Admission.
