Alice in Wonderland

It is always a joy to experience a strong, community-based pantomime, and Portrush Theatre Company’s production of Alice in Wonderland certainly did not disappoint. Set in the beautiful Victorian Portrush Town Hall, built in 1871 and thoughtfully restored in 2004, the venue itself stands as the beating heart of the local community. The proscenium-arch theatre, seating around 200, provides an intimate yet characterful space ideally suited to this type of production.

Direction by Megan McCullough was full of fun, energy, and imagination. Every cast member was well utilised and given their moment to shine, resulting in a celebration of local talent. Although the Town Hall stage is relatively small, the placement and movement of performers in each scene ensured the stage never felt crowded or cluttered. The choreography was well judged, accessible, and pitched perfectly to suit performers of all ages and abilities. Sound throughout was clear and effective, while the lighting design, though simple, supported the action and atmosphere. Staging was practical, making good use of platforms, trucked scenic pieces, and projection. Costumes and makeup were colourful and appropriate. I really enjoyed Musical Director Louise Elliots inclusion of live music, which added warmth, energy, often missing from productions reliant on backing tracks

Ian Magee, a seasoned pantomime dame, stepped confidently into the role of the Right Royal Red Queen, making an entrance that hit the stage like a wrecking ball. From the first moment, he had the audience firmly in the palm of his hand, deploying fast, dry local wit, expertly judged slapstick, and a succession of outrageous, flamboyant costumes. His generosity on stage was evident in the way he supported and promoted younger cast members, while his audience interactions—playful, sharp, and brilliantly timed—were a highlight of the show.

Pippa McCullough was a delightful Alice, winning hearts with her sweet singing voice and warm, engaging performance. Azlina Cohen as Harry was confident and assured, delivering some lovely duets with Pippa.

Cherith McCook, as the Wrong Royal Red Queen, looked and acted every inch the villain, enhanced by a fabulous costume, a convincing accent, a commanding stage presence, with powerful, powerhouse vocals. 

Joan McLaughlin as Bandersnatch, leader of the Bad Rabbits, was overtly evil and proudly so, a seasoned pantomime stalwart delivering a confident performance. 

The Mad Hatter, played by Clare Acheson, delivered a larger-than-life character, with manic movements, quirky cheerful chaos, a fantastic Scottish accent and a strong singing voice, she perfectly embodied the character’s joyful unpredictability.

Rachel McIlroy who stepped into the role at short notice as the White Rabbit, charmed the audience with an endearing, anxious energy, perfectly captured through costume, and prop book, making everyone genuinely worried she was running late.

Neill Virtue and Ann Darcy, as Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee, were constantly up to mischief, delighting the audience with comic chemistry, audience participation, and well-aimed water pistols. Their flour and custard pie scene was outrageous and a particular highlight.

Wrong Rabbits—Lesley Anne Moore, Kiera Winston, Saoirse Thorne, and Fionn McFadden Newman—brought fun and confidence to their rascal roles, especially with their inflatable costumes providing great amusement. The Right Royal Red King, Nicole Liken gave a convincing performance, with another great costume. Jessie Banfield, taking on multiple roles showed impressive versatility and a special mention goes to many of the smaller roles which were played with energy and charm including the flamingo puppeteer.

Both the adult and children’s chorus were the heart and soul of the production, bringing energy and joy to every scene. Dressed in an array of colourful costumes, flowers, butterflies, flamingos, and even a turtle. Their movements were well rehearsed, and their singing was just lovely, with toe-tapping numbers that encouraged the audience to join in. Always smiling, the chorus radiated confidence and charm.

Congratulations to the cast and crew of Alice in Wonderland. It was a pleasure to attend such a highly entertaining and joyful local pantomime. l look forward to seeing what Portrush Theatre Company have planned for next year.

 

 

The views in this report are solely of the author.

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