The National Ballet of Canada's ambitious interpretation of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland is nothing short of magical. The fantastically trippy source material can be a production designer's dream and nightmare. Putting together a show this elaborate is exciting to create, but difficult to execute, however, designer Bob Crowley has more than risen to the challenge.
The sparing yet effective use of projection screens was also exceptional. Jon Driscoll and Gemma Carrington's projections were seamless and enhanced the dreamlike quality of the piece. The choreography by Christopher Wheeldon was inventive throughout and the farcical comedic moments were especially well handled. It is not very often that one encounters a ballet with this much humor and wit. This, coupled with the wonderfully crafted set pieces and innovative imagery make it an exciting spectacle for children. The dancing was routinely excellent. Sonia Rodriguez's Alice was a breathtaking presence and she was matched by Guillaume Cote's Knave of Hearts. The Queen of Hearts was danced with humor and grace by Greta Hodgkinson and Aleksander Antonijevic was a stylish White Rabbit. The blink-and-you'll-miss-it 3 day engagement will surely leave spectators and dance enthusiasts begging for more.
The show is here for four more performances at The Dorothy Chandler Pavillion. Two shows on October 20th and 21st. Tickets are still available.
9/10 Tea cups *********
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