Here’s Your All-Access Backstage Pass to Wonderland at The Kelsey Theatre
by Shirley Erwin
As a fan of retellings, I vaguely remember hearing about a musical based on Alice in Wonderland. Wonderland, with music by Frank Wildhorn, lyrics by Jack Murphy, and book by Gregory Boyd and Jack Murphy, did indeed have a brief stint on Broadway in 2011. It closed due to negative reviews, but was recently given a second chance with a revised book by Jennifer Paulson-Lee and Gabriel Barre. Although Wonderland is a topsy-turvy journey riddled with puzzles and confusion, the heart of the musical is an uplifting reminder to stay true to yourself.
Wonderland is the story of Alice Cornwinkle, who is overwhelmed by life, trying to balance home and work. She is a developer in the running for the upcoming CEO vacancy in her company, Everheart Video Gaming, Inc. With her sights on climbing the corporate ladder, Alice has put her family, consisting of her husband Jack and ten-year-old daughter Chloe, on the backburner. As Alice pulls an all-nighter to come up with a novel video game concept, she is interrupted by a White Rabbit who inadvertently leads her to Wonderland.
This production of Wonderland is produced by Hilary Leboff and Suzanne Smith. Director Frank Ferrara is certainly no stranger to Playful Theatre Productions. He is assisted by Kendal Plumstead. Music begins the production, accompanying a slide show featuring images of characters from the Lewis Carroll novels Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass. Under the musical direction of Shannon Ferrara, assisted by Evelyn Balzer and E.J. Ferrara, the talented pit musicians immediately set the tone of the musical. Members include Jesse Argenziano (Reed 1), Mitchell Martin (Reed 2), Dustin Ciano (Trumpet), E.J. Ferrara (Horn), Terry Chesnovitz (Trombone), Laurie Gougher (Keyboard 1), Peter De Mets (Keyboard 1), Michael Wisnosky (Keyboard 2), Evelyn Balzer (Keyboard 3), Ben Goldman (Drums), Samuel Ferrante (Percussion), Rich Phillips (Guitar), Jackson Siegal (Bass), with Evelyn Balzer and Anthony Wong as rehearsal accompanists.
Foreshadowing a major theme of the musical, the first voice heard is the innocent one of Vaani Jain, portraying Chloe, who brilliantly conveys the mannerisms of a preteen. Jennifer Fischer frantically bursts onto the scene as Alice, providing great contrast to her character by the end of the show. Her powerful voice is displayed early in the musical with solo songs. Aidan Stallworth-Glitz rounds out the family as Alice’s husband Jack.
Despite her character always seeming to be running late, Megan Thompson’s comedic timing as White Rabbit is spot on. Emmanuel Ebba is an impressive sight as the cryptic Caterpillar. The groovy gatos are led by the smooth moves of Anthony Fania as Cheshire Cat I and Simon Hamilton as Cheshire Cat II. Aidan Stallworth-Glitz also portrays the egotistical White Knight, who is the leader of the most popular boy band in Wonderland. Michael Gearty, who I previously saw as Plankton in The Spongebob Musical, brings his enthusiasm and sinister energy as Morris the March Hare, the minion of the Mad Hatter. Fola Walker delivers a dynamic and memorable performance as Mad Hatter. Denise Carey commands the stage as the Queen of Hearts. Ella DeAntonio is excellent at displaying the curiosity and innocence of the Girl. William Kamps is a calming presence as the Man, helping Alice gain confidence and acknowledge what is truly important to her. Aaron Ferrara seamlessly flits on and off the stage as the Goblin. The high energy ensemble consists of Lucy Fisher Alvarez, Sheilla Kraft, Emily Moran, Jay "Jay" Moschella (who has double duty as the Makeup Designer), Ethan Shaev, and Kori Wright.
The choreography by Associate Director Joan Schubin is extremely engaging. There was even constant movement in the background, reflecting the chaotic nature of Wonderland. I especially enjoyed the reflections in the “Through the Looking Glass” number. The scene with the Caterpillar and its legs was enhanced by the bright costumes designed by Michelle Rittmann-Littlehales. The variety of outfits truly made each Wonderland character unique. The disco ball effect by the Lighting Designer Vicki Kaiser added to the disorder of Wonderland. The striking chessboard was the centerpiece of the set designed by Shawn Simmons. It was framed with garlands of cards and large teacups, iconic symbols of Wonderland. My favorite prop provided by designer Nancy Scharf was the puppet that Tweedledee held to represent Tweedledum. The Sound Designer Evan Paine was able to mesh the singing voices of the cast with the live music. Ruth Kresge made scene changes appear effortless as the stage manager.
Wonderland is a delightful modern twist of Alice in Wonderland. It is a true spectacle with dazzling dance numbers. The cast has strong voices that complement the pop/rock score. It has many humorous moments and is so much fun. The riddles really make you ponder questions such as “Why is a raven like a writing desk?” Watching Alice’s journey forces you to rethink your identity, find your inner child, and follow your heart.
Kelsey Theatre appropriately kicked off its Kelsey’s Adventures in Wonderland 2026-’27 season with this production of Wonderland. Unless you possess a backwards-running watch, don’t miss your chance to see Wonderland, running through September 27th. You can purchase tickets here: https://www.purplepass.com/organizer/66720
