Alice - Stage2

Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland undergoes a re-imagining in Stage2’s staging, which is being performed in the studio space at The Crescent until 20 July. 

Adapted by Alexander Butler, who has also directed this production, Alice is an evacuee, caught in the midst of World War II. When forced to leave her London home, to live with her Aunt and Uncle in the countryside, she finds herself embarking on a rather curious adventure in Wonderland. 

Still true to Carroll’s literary nonsense, all the familiar characters you expect to meet are there, from The Queen of Hearts to the Mad Hatter. The whole Stage2 company have clearly worked tirelessly to bring this children’s classic to life. It felt like a true ensemble production - across the board the characterisation and diction was brilliant - with some impressive individual performances.

Notable supporting performances included Roni Mevorach as Aunt / The Queen of Hearts, she delivered an assured portrayal of the foul-tempered monarch. Meanwhile, Joel Fleming brought much character and hilarity to the role of Roger / Mouse, with an endearing cameo from  Sebastian Parker-Duber as Harry / Dormouse. 

Alongside this, the pairing of Amit Mevorach as Bill / Bill the Lizard and Brianna Whitty as Cook brought some solid comic relief to proceedings. Whitty was excellent, with well-placed, over-exaggerated mannerisms, she held the audience’s attention and garnered many a laugh. 

Two stand-out performances of the night came from Emily Cremins, who shone as Wendy / Mad Hatter and leading the way, in the titular role, was Lauren Brine as Alice. Brine brought a sassiness to the role of Alice and took the character out of its twee confines, holding the audiences attention throughout.

However, this was very much an ensemble show. The transition to Wonderland was visually delightful, cleverly depicted through frenetic movements, lighting and a moving platform. 

If you’re curious to know more, why not buy a ticket? Playing until Saturday at the Crescent Theatre, Birmingham. 

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