Wonderland in Alice, CTC Company Review

★ ★ ★ ★

Reviewer - Charlene

*Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in return for an honest review.

CTC Dance Company will unpick the timeless story of Lewis Carroll’s classic tale of Alice in Wonderland in an eery transcendent adaptation, displaying a constantly evolving world of: ‘No Rules. No Time. No Binary’ – Wonderland in Alice.

Alice in Wonderland is a timeless story that has been adapted in many ways, notably the Disney animation from 1951. However, as Christopher Tendai (Director of CTC Dance Company) explained in the post-show talk they wanted to explore the themes in the text but often ignored or hidden such as gender questioning, mental health, and identity. It is a fresh, edgy, and modern feel to a retelling of a story that started its own journey in 1865, so for it to still be relevant and spark people's imagination in 2023 is an achievement.

This exploration resulted in a fantastic, mesmerising performance that had the audience on their feet and buzzing at the end. Theatre Peckham has a great space to play with and this was captured by Damien Stanton’s stage design. Thomas Sandler’s lighting was an integral part of the show as it highlighted Alice’s journey both physically and mentally. Both helped the theatre come to life and made you feel like you are escaping the outside world.

However, the importance of taking away the manufactured boxes of gender titles and allowing them the freedom to grow and explore the darker themes has created something important. ‘No Rules. No Time. No Binary’  is a theme and message running throughout not only the performance but the dance company and creative team.

Alice portrayed by Kira Nichols brings all the emotions and sensitivity to show Alice’s journey. Through their movements and growth, self-identity was discovered. Their interpretation of Alice was whimsical, magical, and evocative capturing the audience’s wonder and amazement. Alongside Alice are the usual suspects of Wonderland that accompany or lead them astray. The Mad Hatter Cameron Everitt brought a sexiness to the character and naughtiness that was fun to watch. The queen of hearts I think was an audience favourite as there were cheers and laughter at their parts. Played perfectly by El Haq Latief who was stylish, beautiful and everything a queen should be. I could have watched more of them for sure and found I was smiling throughout.

Telling the story via spoken word which was all written originally and specifically for this show by Caitlin Taylor. Beautifully spoken and added an almost haunting and eerie element to Alice’s journey. Cat was played by Anne Chircop Beck who was wearing a hot pink attire and moved with a fluidity and softness you would expect from a feline creature. Finally, the white rabbit who you could say is the leader and the start of Alice’s tale, is Mollie Stebbing. There was a definite darkness in their portrayal which added to the darker undertones being explored. The rest of the ensemble was Ebony Pamer and Marina Climent. The whole cast was energetic and upbeat and their love and passion for their roles shone through. The choreography accentuated the cast’s talent range and was flawless. A special mention to Joca Veiga the costume designer who encapsulated the magic and wonder in the whole cast.

Assisting the movement on stage was magic off stage in the form of Shaun Rimmer (Sound Composer) and Gary Jerry (Musical Director). They all complimented each other and assisted the ambience of Wonderland. In the post-show talk, Gary talked about how the piano was the inner voice we all have away from the restraints and noise of society. While there was a variety of sounds used it started and finished with the piano. He also explained how music is a universal language not restricted to binary or social norms.

As I have mentioned throughout there was a post-show discussion which I found interesting, insightful and a bonus to the show itself, I left feeling educated and in awe of the creative team and cast at not only their talent but also their passion for working on this project.

Stand out points made were.

The company provides training for all staff surrounding trans awareness and mental health.
Cast members repeatedly said how safe they felt and frere to express their authentic self.
They are always learning and growing as a team.
The whole team learnt it in 2 weeks which shows the talent.
The importance of this adaption where there is a dissonance in society and how certain groups are being treated. This was the initial thought process between Christopher Tendai (director of CTC company) and Lisa Millar (director of the show).
Dreams of touring to get this show and its message out to more audiences especially to young audiences.
The use of QR codes to signpost charities and support.
Who are we if not who we are told to be?
It felt like a safe space, inclusive and empowering for all; I was left knowing more and privileged to have witnessed something unique, clever, and raw. I will be watching this exciting company in the future. I highly recommend coming to see this show for an uplifting, electrifying, fun experience with endless talent.
At Theatre Peckham, until 22 April.