Shakespeare North Playhouse – until 11 January 2025
Reviewed by Carla Whittaker
4****
Nick Lane’s adaptation of Alice in Wonderland, directed by Nathan Powell, is a delightful, imaginative reimagining of Lewis Carroll’s iconic tale, with a festive local twist that is as heartwarming as it is whimsical. Playing at the Shakespeare North Playhouse in Prescot until 11 January 2025, this vibrant production not only breathes new life into the classic but also integrates charming local references, from Prescot High Street to Waterfields bakery, creating a performance that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
In this adaptation, the plot follows an older Alice, now out Christmas shopping, when she spots a familiar white rabbit and tumbles back into the strange and surreal Wonderland. The whimsical world Alice enters is filled with bizarre creatures and curious adventures, as she navigates the fantastical landscape once more. What truly sets this production apart is its unique framing device: a lively retelling of the story by a set of animated playing cards. This creative touch added an extra layer of humour and accessibility, while grounding the fantastical tale in a very real, relatable local context. The festive twist—set around a Christmas funfair—infused the performance with warmth and joy, making it the perfect seasonal treat.
The show is a delightful blend of community, and celebration, with a strong emphasis on audience engagement. The chemistry between the actors was palpable, bringing the fantastical characters to life with infectious energy. Cleverly placed local references ensured that the performance resonated deeply with the audience, while the vibrant costumes and atmospheric lighting enhanced the magical world onstage. The production’s combination of playful humour, enchanting visuals, and interactive moments kept everyone—young and old—captivated from start to finish.
Nathan Powell’s direction infused the performance with an exuberant energy that felt alive with laughter and joy. The set was bright, colourful, and wonderfully magical, creating an enchanting environment without overwhelming the space. Sascha Gilmore’s costume design was a true standout, cleverly conveying each character’s identity with striking visual details, all while ensuring fluid movement and seamless transitions. This was essential for maintaining the show’s dynamic pace, especially during rapid costume changes, which were handled flawlessly.
What made this adaptation even more unique was its incorporation of local flavour, the use of Scouse terminology and references to familiar landmarks created an immediate connection with the audience, grounding the surreal world of Wonderland in the heart of Prescot and making the performance feel even more immersive.
The performances were nothing short of stellar. Helen Carter imbued Alice with spirited charm, making her journey both relatable and thoroughly engaging. Kelsie Gordon-Harrison’s portrayal of the Cheshire Cat was a comedic highlight—her
gymnastics and energetic performance had the audience in stitches. Martha Godber’s Queen of Hearts struck the perfect balance between cruel authority and charismatic villainy, with her powerful and “edgy” vocals adding gravitas to her role.
Milton Lopes’s natural charisma and impeccable comedic timing made his performance a joy to watch, and Tia Larsen’s take on the White Rabbit was simply sensational. Ditching the traditional fluffy costume, Larsen’s character was instead intricately designed and delivered with hilarious flair, offering a fresh and engaging interpretation of the beloved character. The entire cast displayed remarkable versatility, effortlessly transitioning between various roles and keeping the energy alive throughout the performance.
The lighting design was a critical element in setting the mood, building tension, and adding depth to key moments. It was atmospheric without being overpowering, drawing the audience further into the world of Wonderland. Similarly, the sound design was bold and impactful, amplifying key moments with striking intensity while never overshadowing the action. These technical elements, along with the vibrant performances, created an immersive, magical experience that truly brought Wonderland to life.
This production of Alice in Wonderland is a testament to creativity, community, and the magic of live theatre. The cast’s electric energy and passion for their roles were evident, and their enthusiasm was infectious, creating a truly heartfelt performance that resonated with the audience long after the curtain fell.
With its clever use of local references, stunning performances, and enchanting design, this modern yet festive adaptation of Alice in Wonderland offers a magical experience that will leave audiences smiling and thoroughly entertained. It’s a must-see for families, theatre enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a joyful holiday outing. Don’t miss this brilliant production at the Shakespeare North Playhouse—it’s a perfect festive treat that captures the timeless charm of Wonderland while infusing it with local warmth and charm.
Parking at the venue is limited, so it’s best to arrive early. While parking is free, spaces can be hard to come by. The foyer area was also quite cramped, which made accessing the bar and other facilities a bit challenging. Additionally, a local dance group performed prior to the show, which was brilliant, but it may have been better suited to the stage, as it obstructed access to the toilets and bar. The gallery exhibition, showcasing Lewis Carroll’s original story, was unfortunately too crowded to fully enjoy, but it offered an interesting glimpse into the history behind the tale.
However, the volunteers at the theatre were incredibly helpful and plentiful, ensuring that all attendees were well looked after throughout the evening. From guiding guests to their seats to offering assistance with any questions, the volunteers added a warm and welcoming touch to the overall experience.
