Alice in Wonderland

SDC Supernovas pulled the rabbit out of the hat with only their second youth production: with a vast number of colourful characters, fabulous costumes and an imaginative set, we were transported to Wonderland, as the Supernovas built on last year’s experience to further develop their skills.  

There were some strong characterisations: Lorina and Alice established a strong sisterly relationship from the outset;  Alice’s weeping was very convincing and she was especially strong in the Tea Party scene; the Dodo had a good sense of fun and everyone clearly enjoyed taking part in the Caucus Race; the three Alices were in all cases engaging and purposeful throughout; the Mouse was clearly in a huff at the cat and dog discussion; the Duck maintained character and mimed eating well; the White Rabbit was timid; Charlotte Pigeon and Doris Pigeon created clear characters with expressive voices; the mesmerising Cheshire Cat prowled sinuously, and its maniacal grin was most entertaining; the mirror sequence with the Duchess was extremely well done; the Mad-Hatter with his ‘Hmm, hmm’ catchphrase and his ability to carry the character through in his physicality was charmingly eccentric, as was the March Hare when facing downstage, and we enjoyed the amusing, quirky moves as they all moved round the table; the diminutive King of Hearts had a huge personality, skilfully portraying the hen-pecked husband, the diplomat and the masterful monarch; the Knave of Hearts was extremely energetic and full of enthusiasm; Alice reacted extremely well in all situations and conveyed perfectly her sense of confusion; the Queen of Hearts was bossy without being intimidating, and clearly enjoyed the role.

Everyone was involved in the action, with the ensemble engaged throughout, including: as the Caterpillar and with its final words well-coordinated; in the Caucus race; with the Jabberwocky; in the Lobster Quadrille, and as little Teardrops.

Lines were mostly confidently learned and diction was good.  Notable voices belonged to the Cheshire Cat, whose sinister voice had lovely diction and tone; the Hatter and the Hare; the Alices; the King with excellent delivery of the speech about the Queen’s dress and when giving orders; the Cards’ vocal expression during the argument; the Mouse spoke the cat and dog speech expressively; and “I’m such a Dodo’ was hilarious.

Visually, this production was very appealing.  Costumes for the Cheshire Cat, Queen, Duchess and especially the Jabberwocky were fabulous; the Dormouse outfit was cute and the Flamingo tutu lovely - in all the costumes were colourful and imaginative.  The set was a creative gem, designed to accommodate three Alice actors who grow and shrink repeatedly: the leafy backdrop; the lovely watery teardrop cloth; the drawing room; the castle and the tea party set, were all attractive; the flying pig-baby added to the fun.

It is most rewarding to see a young company building skills and encouraging everyone (too many to mention) to participate, and to such great effect.  Congratulations to Director Victoria Jones and to all the Supernovas - all stars in the making.

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