Alice in Wonderland – Shakespeare North Playhouse, Prescot

Writer: Nick Lane

Director: Nathan Powell

The classic tale is reimagined with a festive twist inAlice in Wonderland, Shakespeare North Playhouse’s Christmas offering for 2024. Written by Nick Lane, this sequel takes audiences back to Wonderland for a final adventure as Alice, now a grown-up and harried mother of two, rediscovers the magic of her youth after an incident with a juggling ball.

Helen Carter leads the five-strong cast as Alice, bringing a local, Liverpudlian charm to the role that resonates with the home crowd. Her sassy and grounded portrayal gives Alice a relatable edge, leaning more towards a festive romp in a Northern Winter Wonderland than the surreal magic of Lewis Carroll’s original.

The supporting cast, playing cards transformed into a variety of Wonderland characters, work tirelessly to bring the eccentric world to life. Milton Lopes dazzles with his acrobatics, while Kelise Gordon-Harrison shows impressive versatility in multiple roles. Special mention goes to understudy Tia Larsen, who manages a whirlwind of costume changes and accents with admirable clarity and almost perfect precision.

The standout, however, is Martha Godber. With stellar vocals, impeccable stage presence, and a knack for physical comedy, Godber lights up the stage, delivering a polished performance that underpins the ensemble’s efforts. Her pedigree is evident, and her commitment ensures she remains the highlight of the production.

Director Nathan Powell (New Creative director of the Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse) keeps the pace brisk, though occasional first-week jitters briefly stall momentum. His vibrant staging injects plenty of humour into the script, while Sascha Gilmour’s inventive circus-themed set and vivid costumes add to the carnival-like atmosphere. The sound design is a particular triumph, with playful effects like the quacking of a hook-a-duck stall and a 360-degree soundscape bringing the chaotic world of Wonderland to life.

However, while billed as “acrobatic,” the show doesn’t quite deliver enough spectacle in that department. Some songs feel under-rehearsed or hastily added, which dampens their impact, and the emotional core of the story (Alice reconnecting with her children) is overshadowed by the zaniness, leaving the finale less satisfying than it could have been. The conclusion, with Alice showing more affection to a bemused juggler than her own children, misses the mark and could have provided a more satisfying ending.

For families, the experience is enriched by the free interactive ‘Curiouser and Curiouser’ exhibition, which adds depth to the visit. At just £5–£30 per ticket, the “pay what you like” pricing is a highlight, offering accessible holiday entertainment for all.

While it doesn’t fully capture the enchantment of Lewis Carroll’s Wonderland,Alice in Wonderlandis a lively, fun-filled production that offers plenty of laughs and festive cheer. For as little as £5, it’s worth a tea party visit—just don’t be late!

Runs until 11 Jan 2025