Disney’s Alice in Wonderland Jr.

Report

Author: Ron Stewart

This was the third successive week which members of the Thomson-Leng Youth Music Theatre had staged shows. The previous two were attended by Region 2 Rep. Roger Buist but as he had nipped off on holiday it was my delightful duty to attend this colourful and beautifully staged trip to Wonderland as seen by the Walt Disney organisation. As someone who hasn’t even read the original Lewis Carol tales of Alice’s adventures I was able to sit back and enjoy this extremely well staged and colourfully costumed presentation by a highly talented and well coached  group of youngsters in the 10 to thirteen years age group (with assistance from one or two of a slightly older vintage). With a cast of over 20 characters it is not possible in the space allowed to mention everyone. Suffice to say they all did their part in making this production a most enjoyable one. In the Title roles of Alice, Small Alice and Tall Alice, Eve Cameron in the central character was delightful with clear diction a very nice singing voice and a stage presence well beyond her years. Her small and tall “look-alikes” (Ava Kelly and Daisy Todd) were equally in character. The three Cheshire Cats, who carried the main narrator duties were also ably played by Erin McDonald, Emily Robertson and Holly Ryan (striking makeup!) Ava Hogan was a very energetic White Rabbit (always in a rush) and Jolie Wood a menacing Queen of Hearts (“Off with their heads”) The Girls of the Golden Afternoon were a delightful group and sang well and the harmony singing of the entire ensemble was superb for such a young cast. The whole production team and of course all the adult helpers and committee members are to be congratulated as I know the amount of work and enthusiasm required to train not just one, but three groups of juniors. When I see junior productions such as this it gives me hope that the future of amateur theatre in this and many other parts of Scotland is in very good hands. Well done everyone and thank you for your welcome and hospitality.