OCVC’s enthusiastic second-year performing arts students descended upon the OFS with their exuberant yet dark portrayal of Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. From the cross-dressing King of Hearts to the schizophrenic doorman, nothing about their interpretation is normal; and the production’s all the better for it. With a range of multimedia and performing disciplines, every moment is exciting and interesting. Often surprising and always colourful, this production brings the classic tale alive. The strength and focus of the ensemble really aided this piece. Every member of the cast was involved and I was swept happily along in their vibrant performance.
A few members of the cast really shone through. The White Rabbit (Paul Piper) gave a spectacular performance. With innovative physicalisation, brilliant facial commitment and an invaluable, inherent sense of performance he often stole the show. Piper was also noticeable in different roles during the ensemble pieces; committed on and off the ball and entertaining at all times. The King and Queen of Hearts (Wesley Etienne and Kristina Whiting) were also marvellous to watch with the down-beaten King as a camp cross-dresser! Without overplaying either part they managed to portray a remarkably familiar scene of the overbearing wife and the husband who quietly deals with the carnage she leaves behind. Solid performances were also put in by Aaron Cartwright and Emma Paintin; in ensemble and individual roles convincing performances were given throughout. Two outstanding moments were the hilarious exchange of one simple word ‘Pepper’ between the Duchess (Grace Williams) and her cook, simple and not overdone - a brilliant altercation, and the puppet show at the Mad Hatter's tea party. Interesting and amusing, it added a new dimension to an already multi- faceted show. Whilst the dance sequences were sometimes messy and ill-timed, they fitted well with the chaotic themes of wonderland and were well placed without that all too common feeling of, ‘oh well we better put a dance in here’. There are elements to be enjoyed by all ages, a great show for kids, an absolute must see, a classic tale with a modern twist, simple yet brilliant.
A few members of the cast really shone through. The White Rabbit (Paul Piper) gave a spectacular performance. With innovative physicalisation, brilliant facial commitment and an invaluable, inherent sense of performance he often stole the show. Piper was also noticeable in different roles during the ensemble pieces; committed on and off the ball and entertaining at all times. The King and Queen of Hearts (Wesley Etienne and Kristina Whiting) were also marvellous to watch with the down-beaten King as a camp cross-dresser! Without overplaying either part they managed to portray a remarkably familiar scene of the overbearing wife and the husband who quietly deals with the carnage she leaves behind. Solid performances were also put in by Aaron Cartwright and Emma Paintin; in ensemble and individual roles convincing performances were given throughout. Two outstanding moments were the hilarious exchange of one simple word ‘Pepper’ between the Duchess (Grace Williams) and her cook, simple and not overdone - a brilliant altercation, and the puppet show at the Mad Hatter's tea party. Interesting and amusing, it added a new dimension to an already multi- faceted show. Whilst the dance sequences were sometimes messy and ill-timed, they fitted well with the chaotic themes of wonderland and were well placed without that all too common feeling of, ‘oh well we better put a dance in here’. There are elements to be enjoyed by all ages, a great show for kids, an absolute must see, a classic tale with a modern twist, simple yet brilliant.