The Australian Shakespeare Company, based in Melbourne, produces two types of shows: Shakespeare (obviously!) and family-friendly theatre. Alice in Wonderland, an exuberant ball of energy, fits into the latter category. It is being performed in Sydney’s own backyard, the luscious green grass and tall wavy trees of the Royal Botanic Garden. The open-air outdoor theatre sets this production head-and-shoulders above the others simply for its location alone.
Co-producer Glenn Elston distinguishes his adaptation further by leaning all the way into audience participation. From call-and-responses to singing songs to facilitating children crawling through their parent’s/carer’s legs (it’s much sweeter and more wholesome than it sounds!), each interaction is careful, considered and comfortable. The children asked to be involved are smiling, laughing and dancing.
Previous stagings have demonstrated the company’s talent and ability to engage both younger viewers and adults. The balance of clowning and pantomime with pop-culture references for the adults means everyone is entertained. The Elvis and Robert Irwin references are particular standouts for me!
This latest production features a talented cast and creative crew who have brought Lewis Carroll’s classic tale to life in new and innovative ways. Madeline Calder portrays the curious and adventurous protagonist. She expertly captures the essence of Alice’s journey through Wonderland. Stella Coppola embodies the perpetually late and anxious White Rabbit and the sleepy Dormouse, engaging young audiences with her energetic performance.
Ashleigh Hermann is royally bombastic as the regal Queen of Hearts. Her perfectly posh delivery doubles down on everything we love to hate about this character, particularly her fondness for cutting off people’s heads. Her circus-like stilts and puffy red dress is the costume of the show!
Dennis Manahan takes on dual roles, delivering a whimsical Mad Hatter, a quirky Bill the Lizard and serves as the show’s Director. Harlee Timms portrays the eccentric March Hare, contributing to the chaos of the Mad Tea Party with his marvellous ‘M’-word monologue.
The imaginative puppets, including a gigantic Caterpillar and a glowing Cheshire Cat with a detachable smile, are a visual delight. The vibrant, detailed costumes transport the audience straight down the rabbit hole. Originally designed by Laurel Frank, with creative additions by Kaspa Elston and Karla Erenbots, the costumes and puppets are a fantastical triumph that bring Wonderland to life.
But front and centre is the glorious three-sectioned set design by Sarah Tulloch and Glenn Elston. They have created whimsical pieces in the court with the Queen of Hearts, the clock with the Mad Hatter, and the mushroom with the Caterpillar. Together, these pieces enhance the fantastical atmosphere a thousand-fold!
Alice in Wonderland is magical, memorable, and must-see. This outdoor theatre experience offers a delightful adventure for audiences of all ages.
Alice in Wonderland runs until 27 April at the Pioneer Garden at Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.
Website: https://www.shakespeareaustralia.com.au/productions/alice-in-wonderland—sydney—2025
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/shakespeareaust/
Images supplied.
