This past Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, performances of Alice @ Wonderland brought down the WTHS play house. Directed by Abigail Molotsky and starring Maggie Fitzgerald ‘20 as Alice, the production went for three laughter-filled successful performances.
Members of the cast, production staff, tech crew, and stage crew, all worked together to pull off a show that beamed with excitement, wonder, and many unexpected twists.
“This show has been like no other. It’s a twist between the original Alice in Wonderland and the modern world,” said Nik Haughey ‘19, who played Tweedle-Dum.
“I’ve been a part of many Alice In Wonderland productions, but nothing like this!” said Vilmi Roselli ’19, who played the sassy housewife Duchess.
With references to modern technology like wi-fi, smartphones, and social media, Alice navigates through the classic world of
Wonderland, meeting many strange creatures along the way.
“As someone who loves the classic, I really enjoyed helping put together an amazing spinoff,” said stage manager, Mackenzie Hoose ‘19.
Aside from the script itself, many of the actors took the traditional story to new levels by developing their own versions of the characters. Josh Loomis ‘18 performed as the colorful Mad Hatter, complete with a crazed laugh and other dramatic flairs. Scott Bonerbo ’19 portrayed the classic White Rabbit, frantically running around the stage proclaiming his lateness.
“Everyone has really brought their characters to life and put their own mark on them as well,” said Maggie Fitzgerald ‘19.
Alongside the diverse cast was the people backstage making the show run smoothly. Stage managers, prop crew, tech crew, stage crew, and production team worked together to bring the show to life. The people behind the scenes found the experience to be just as rewarding as those on stage.
“It felt great to be a part of such an inclusive and fun production,” said Cameron Markey ’19, a member of the stage crew. Stage crew helped to do things such as create sets and do scene changes, as well as move curtains and organize set pieces back stage. They worked alongside the production staff, who communicated with all to make the show run smoothly and efficiently.
“Being a stage manager, I have really been able to watch the show evolve into something we can all be extremely proud of,” said Megan DeRuchie ’19. Megan could be seen backstage talking on headset, working with other production staff to keep everyone and everything organized.
“I really enjoy being able to watch the show from the booth. It makes it really come to life,” said Mackenzie Hoose ’19, who manages many of the show’s operations from the booth above the audience overlooking the stage. With members of the tech crew, the booth gives the show the lighting and sound it needs for the actors to be seen and heard.
Everyone from these departments worked seamlessly alongside their adult supervisors to pull off an amazing production. Many involved saw this play as more than just a project, but as a wonderful bonding experience.
“We are all a family,” said Joe Destra ’20, who played the role of Strange Door.
“Having the opportunity to play Alice along with an incredible cast and director has been an amazing experience,” said Maggie Fitzgerald ’20.
As the entire community did their traditional annual pre-show shake down ritual on opening night, the love and excitement could be felt ringing through the room. The theater community has pulled off another amazing production under the guidance of director Abigail Molotsky.