Alice 1 (Isabella Rizzolo) encounters the Cheshire Cat (Oliver Caron) Submitted photo
With creative twist on a classic tale, the upcoming production of “Alice in Wonderland” promises to be an unforgettable experience. The show opens Friday, June 14, at Community Little Theater in Auburn.
Alice 2 (Maisy Seaver) rehearses with the White Night (Jacob Osbourne) Submitted photo
Based on the famous novel by Lewis Caroll, “Alice in Wonderland” tells the well-known story of Alice, a young girl who goes on an incredible journey when she falls down a rabbit hole and finds herself in a colorful and whimsical fantasy world. While most of us are very familiar with the tale, Jason Pizzarello’s adaptation of this beloved tale throws in some new twists, while still staying true to the original story. The production will have a unique steampunk motif, some amazing special effects and an impressive cast of 25 talented actors.
Humpty Dumpty (Tony Roy) meets Alice 2 (Maisy Seaver) Submitted photo
Director Britny Anderson said she chose “Alice in Wonderland” because of her love of fantasy and interesting characters along with her interest in the deeper themes that run through the storyline. “Alice in Wonderland” is full of underlying themes and hidden meanings. She says she chose the Jason Pizzarello adaptation because she appreciated how strongly the theme of identity was apparent in the story.
To further embellish on the story, she decided to add a unique steampunk motif to the production, saying “I decided to apply a steampunk concept to the show, which takes the nostalgia and technology of the Victorian era and adds the whimsy of this fantastic futuristic version of it. Wonderland is open to any interpretation; it is moldable and I find that very freeing”
The Playing Cards rehearse with the Doormouse. Cards, from left, are Mara Cunningham, Helenna McCauley, Evie True, Link Brown, Shayna Barnhard, Mia Rodriguez and Angela Gallant with Julie Pfohl, the Doormouse. Photo Caption 1: The Playing Cards rehearse with the Doormouse. Cards, from left, are Mara Cunningham, Helenna McCauley, Evie True, Link Brown, Shayna Barnhard, Mia Rodriguez and Angela Gallant with Julie Pfohl, the Doormouse. Photo Caption 2: Humpty Dumpty (Tony Roy) meets Alice 2 (Maisy Seaver) Photo Caption 3: Alice 1 (Isabella Rizzolo) encounters the Cheshire Cat (Oliver Caron) Photo Caption 4: Alice 2 (Maisy Seaver) rehearses with the White Night (Jacob Osbourne) Photo Caption 5: Submitted photo
The set, which includes working gears, steamworks and other exciting features, was also designed by Anderson. “The goal,” she said, “is to have the show be as immersive as possible.” When asked how Cheshire Cat’s famous grin would be achieved, she said “We’re going to use a little theater magic.”
The costumes, designed by Jennifer Fox, will be the traditional “Alice in Wonderland” costumes — with a little added on steampunk flair.
Jason Osbourne rehearses his role as the White Night. Submitted photo
During her adventures in Wonderland, Alice (Izabelle Rizzolo) meets the some fun and peculiar characters, such as The White Rabbit (Dana Chabot), The Mad Hatter (Jason Pelletier), The March Hare (Greg Lambert) and Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum (Shayna Barnhard and Oliver Caron) to name a few. Among the whimsy and chaos along this crazy journey, Alice even meets herself (Maisy Seaver).
Performances are planned at 7:30 p.m. on June 14, 15, 20, and 21; and at 2 p.m. on June 16, 22 and 23.
L/A Community Little Theatre, located at 30 Academy St., Auburn, has been producing live theatre since 1940. A volunteer, non-profit organization, our goal is to provide affordable and quality entertainment in the performing arts as well as education, training, and experience in theatre for area youth. For more information and to purchase tickets , call 207-783-0958 or visit LACLT.com.
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