As many Brits will know, the run-up to Christmas is panto season; a particularly British entertainment derived from ribald musical comedy and plots adapted from beloved books or fairy stories.
The Algarveans are kicking off their 36th year with Alice in Wonderland, co-directed by Frank Remiatte and Angela Theobold.
Adapted from Lewis Carroll’s 1865 children’s novel, Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, the story depicts young Alice who follows a white rabbit down a rabbit hole and into a fantasy world of anthropomorphic creatures. But in Tom Whalley’s panto version, all is not well in this curious place; as it is the Queen of Hearts’ un-birthday party and the wicked Knave plots to steal the jam tarts. With the help of the Duchess, a sassy Cheshire Cat and the maddest of Hatters, will Alice be able to save Wonderland?
This promises to be a fun-filled family show with unforgettable characters, colourful costumes by Lynda Marshall and props fashioned by Emma Batten, visually striking dance numbers created by dance director Shelley Danca and musical numbers by Shirley Devlin. Set builder Malcolm Marshall is creating ‘wonderland’ off-site at the warehouse. Finally, production manager Jenny Morris-Marks is seeing that everything runs smoothly behind the scenes.
With over 60 people involved in bringing this production to the stage, all directors are working hard to ensure an evening of wonderful entertainment.
Alice in Wonderland is playing at Carlos do Carmo Auditorium, Lagoa, on November 19, 20 and 21 at 7.30pm, with a matinée on Saturday, November 21. Please note that the show is suitable for ages six and above and contains one strobe effect. Tickets at €15 are on sale now from BOL.pt or in person at Auditório Carlos do Carmo and at Município de Lagoa – Balcão Único. Also available at Worten and FNAC shops or websites.
By Tracey Christiansen
Photos: Madeleine Wheare
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