Wonderland at the New Wimbledon Theatre Review
Reviewed by Sabrina Fancy
Following the debut at the Edinburgh playhouse in January, I was delighted to see Wonderland at the New Wimbledon Theatre as part of its 30 venue UK tour.
Wonderland is a delightful musical based on Lewis Carroll’s book ‘Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.‘ This musical tale is set in modern day featuring Alice, a single parent who is disenchanted with life and given up on her dreams. However, with the help of her daughter and neighbour, she is transported to Wonderland where we are treated to a magical world of sensory, psychedelic explosion of bright colours, incredible sets and brilliant costumes. This is a high-energy production, which does not disappoint.
The success of this production is based on the exceptionally strong cast. The character of Alice is played by West end and Broadway leading lady Kerry Ellis, best known for her role as Elphaba in Wicked and Fantine in Les Miserables. Ellis was clearly born to be a performer. Wendy Peters, (favourite of Coronation street) captures the very essence of the mad (and frightening) Queen of Hearts.
Dave Willetts, who portrays the white rabbit is quirky and bags of fun and star quality having previously starred in the Phantom of the Opera in the starring role of the Phantom.
Alice in Wonderland’ is full of fanciful characters, each with their own distinct personality adding a bit of humour and dimension to the production. The Caterpillar, played by Kayi Ushe, was particularly amusing but all of the characters add to the fun!
Wonderland is a very well produced exploration of who we are and what we want to be with a bit of magic and comedic value thrown in along the way. It is a musical delight of catchy, infectious songs performed by strong vocalists. I myself will be looking into purchasing the soundtrack.
Interestingly, Lewis Carroll’s goal in writing Alice in Wonderland was to teach children a lesson about growing up in an entertaining way. The musical tells an equally important message about clinging to the past and how it’s never too late to embrace change and become a better version of oneself in the process. Given the enjoyment of this production, I rate it a 4/5.
The New Wimbledon theatre, is located a quick 5 minute walk from Wimbledon station and only 3 short stops on the train line from Victoria. The theatre itself is beautiful inside and has plenty of character, having been in operation since 1910. An incredible atmosphere exists, because the theatre feels intimate and the views are good from all sections! The acoustics and lighting are brilliant and the seats comfortable with a decent amount of legroom with ticket prices being significantly cheaper than the West End.
Rating: 4/5
Tickets cost from £21.40 to £51.90 (plus £2.85 transaction fee).
Wonderland is at the New Wimbledon Theatre in London from 2-6 May 2017, for more information or to book tickets visit www.atgtickets.com/new-wimbledon-theatre or call the box office on 0844 871 7646.
New Wimbledon Theatre, The Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1QG | 0844 871 7646
