Well ho ho ho, suddenly it’s that time of year again, so I took myself off to Lichfield’s Garrick Theatre to see what their team there have come up with in the way of festive fare for 2012. They’ve got a great track record for seasonal entertainment, but the big question was could they top their own past successes?
Well I’m glad to report that this year’s crowd-pleaser Alice in Wonderland is an all-singing, all-dancing spectacular with a circus theme that’s light, bright, full of colour and good humour, and just what the doctor ordered.
Lewis Carroll’s 1865 fantasy novel is a potentially difficult choice for a show that’s aimed at all ages. Its apparent nonsense masks a profound discussion of maths and logic but the good news is generations of children have loved the story without needing to get in too deep. And there’s plenty to like in this adaptation with its wealth of memorable characters and ridiculous situations.
First there’s a really first rate on-stage orchestra conducted by the Garrick’s Chief Executive and Artistic Director Adrian Jackson – he plays the Hanging Judge too. Then there’s Garrick favourite Ian Adams (who adapted the book and directs) as the Caterpillar, the Duchess and of course the Mad Hatter. Then there’s a lovely young Alice in the shape of Laura Baldwin, unbelievably in her first professional role who acts with poise, dances with verve and sings like a West End star. Steve Huison, best known recently as Corrie’s Eddie Windass links the show together as the White Rabbit with effortless aplomb.
Add in all the other much-loved characters from the Dormouse (aah) to the Cheshire Cat in an endless array of colourful costumes and you’ve got a non-stop show of singing, dancing and comedy.
Yes, they’ve done it again.
For tickets phone the box office on 01543 412121 or go online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com.
